SHARE:  
Xerces Society logo

April 26, 2024 | View as Webpage

Adding Microhabitats is an Easy Way to Make a Difference

Wildlife conservation sometimes focuses on the protection of large spaces, far away from our cities and homes, that support many kinds of life. These wilderness areas are very important, but they aren’t the whole story. While big animals, like elk and bison, can only thrive in large spaces, bugs are pretty tiny! Any of us with even a tiny postage stamp of a yard—or just a deck or balcony—can create a vital part of the habitat bugs need to flourish. And if each of us—you, your neighbor, your friend down the block—takes a step, that adds up to a lot.


As you consider what you can do, remember that you don’t have to do it all in one go. Look at your yard and see what’s possible to do this year. Then decide what you might do next year.


Every small change you make will make your yard better, and will pay off when you see more beautiful wildlife around you. Together, we can reweave the fabric of our environment.

Clear Space for Bees: Why Pollinators in Your Yard Need Access To Bare Ground


Open patches of soil and sand, with few or no plants, are a key nesting habitat for the majority of native bees, and easy for us to provide.



Learn more

Wildlife on the Rocks: Providing the Rocky Habitats Bugs Need for Shelter


Rock piles and stone walls might seem like they take yard space away from plants, but these features are crucial to support a diverse wildlife community.


Learn more

Resources for your garden


Support conservation and spread the word about the importance of pollinators by displaying this sign in your yard. Produced by the Xerces Society, this durable 9″ x 10″ sturdy sign is designed for outdoor use. Available in English and Spanish.


Available for a donation in our Gift Center

Job postings

We're hiring! Feel free to take a look and share with your network. All applications must be submitted through our online application portal.


Upcoming events

May 15

Slough Science: Providing Habitat and Protecting Invertebrates from Pesticides in Residential Landscapes

Portland, OR

May 23

In the Life of Nocturnal Pollinators

Webinar

View all events

The Xerces Society is a donor-supported nonprofit organization that protects our world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats.


Your tax-deductible donation will help grow and sustain that essential work.

Donate

Become a member

Renew membership

Fundraise

Donation mailing address:

The Xerces Society

PO Box 97387

Washington DC, 20090-7387

Donation and membership questions:

membership@xerces.org

855-232-6639 (option 2)

Photo credits from top, left: Sebastian Echeverri / Xerces Society, Robby Deans CC-BY-NC, Heather Holm.



Copyright © 2024 The Xerces Society

Facebook  X  Instagram  Youtube