thisplace.com.au - Biodiversity - how we can all help mother nature?

The variety of nature is known as biological or biodiversity. It is more than just the number of different plant and animal species. It includes all the different types of forest, wetland, grassland and other ecosystems.

Why do plants and animals need healthy habitats?

All plant and animals need healthy habitats because they provide them with everything they need to survive and breed,as well as food, shelter, light and space.

How can we help to keep the Environment Alive?

Local bush and even your backyard are important homes for wildlife. The two big ways to help are

protect and bring back the habitat for wildlife
reducing the impact of your resource use

Tips to help the environment

make your garden or property bush friendly by creating habitat for native wildlife - weed control is very important
reduce the impact of your cat or dog on native wildlife - keep them indoors at night, and if you have a cat attach a two bell collar
start a compost heap to recycle and reuse your garden waste and kitchen vegetable scraps - worm farms also work well
dispose of chemicals, paints, oils, detergents and plastics safely so they do not pollute our waterways and harm wildlife
contact your local council to find out how to get local native plants, and information on other local conservation programs
keep an eye on your local area - monitor and report any changes, and comment on environmental plans
try to recycle and reuse as much as you can - not only will it help the environment it will also save you money
try to leave snakes and spiders in their natural habitats -they are good for the environment - obviously there are occasions when you will need to remove them, especially if you have young children or if they a too close to your house or are too aggressive - if you decide you want them gone call in an expert especially in the case of snakes as it is not worth the risk

Creating a Wildlife Habitat

plant native trees, shrubs and grasses local to your area to attract native birds and other wildlife - think about converting 10 to 25 % of your garden or property to wildlife habitat - for advice on native plants contact your local Council or nursery
when planting, try to recreate the layers of trees, shrubs and ground covers found in the bush. Natural mulch (leaf litter and twigs) rather than just open lawn saves water and provides homes for beetles and worms and in turn food for birds, lizards and other wildlife - be careful not to create fire hazards near bushland
remove weeds either declared noxious or unfriendly to bushland - herbicides must be treated with great care when treating weeds
build a frog pond, or convert an old fish pond or dam to encourage native frogs back to your garden or property
place nest boxes for birds and possums on trees in your backyard or property, but check regularly and remove non native animals and bees
leave rocks and logs in your garden or property to attract lizards and other wildlife
avoid feeding wildlife in urban areas - our food is not good for them and can upset their natural behaviour and balance of nature
avoid pesticides, use sparingly or consider alternatives to chemical pest control - birds, frogs and reptiles can become

Source: Community Biodiversity Network