National Wildlife Federation: Take Action for Caterpillars, Salamanders and Fireflies

Did you know that leaving or repurposing fallen leaves in local landscapes creates vital overwintering habitat for vulnerable caterpillars, at-risk salamanders, and declining firefly populations? And even songbirds benefit by foraging for insects and seeds among the fallen leaves? When leaves are collected and thrown away or sent to the landfill, we eliminate this important microhabitat and disrupt the ecosystem.But local ordinances or homeowners associations often require the removal of fallen leaves from residential yards, commercial landscapes, and outdoor public spaces. Send a message today urging your local officials to lift or modify any existing fallen leaves removal requirements and to leave the leaves in outdoor public spaces. Act HERE.