The Backyard Naturalists

10/16/2026

What changes (additions or removals) are you making to your habitat this fall to attract more wildlife?

Post in the comments below! Bonus points for pictures!

Learn how to create and certify wildlife-friendly habitats at home, work, school, and community spaces. Explore DIY resources to support your local ecosystems.

10/10/2026

Listen to our episode on Forest Bathing and check this out!

Let us know about your experience!

The free resource pinpoints parking, trailheads and restrooms to make planning your next walk easier.

10/09/2026

What do you do with leaves where YOU live?

10/06/2026

It's October and Halloween isn't too far away, so it's time again to post my annual warning about artificial spider webs some folks feel compelled to use in holiday displays. Please don't, but please do spread the word to others. My earlier post:

Y'know those artificial spider webs that are in vogue as a Halloween decoration? Not only are they a waste of money and natural resources, they're also a potential DEATH TRAP for birds (and likely other small animals). Here’s a photo (not mine) of a now-dead female Downy Woodpecker whose tongue, feet, and tail are ensnared in a fake web. If you have any of this junk hanging, please take it down immediately and destroy it.

10/01/2026

Happy International Raccoon Day!

Good advice given in the post 👇

09/30/2026

Ran across this in my feed this morning and thought people would find it interesting. How loud is that bird???

P.S. My cockatoo scoffed at this. Something to the effect of 120dB? Pfffft! Hold my b**r and listen to THIS!

There are two new contenders for the world’s loudest bird – and scientists are not being quiet about it.

09/29/2026

If you live in Matthews (28105) check out this great opportunity to get two FREE native trees!

These aren’t saplings. Past trees given away have been in the 5-10’ height range!

Register now and put it in your calendar!

TreesMatthews Annual Tree Giveaway - add a native tree to your yard, for free! 🌳

📅 Saturday, October 24, 2026
⏰ 7:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (or until trees are gone)
📍 Matthews United Methodist Church
801 South Trade Street, Matthews, NC 28105

The Town of Matthews Appearance & Tree Advisory Committee is excited to host the annual TreesMatthews Tree Adoption Event. Matthews residents can receive up to two free native trees, each with a free bag of mulch, perfect for adding beauty and canopy to your yard.

🌱 How It Works
-Advance registration is highly encouraged. Reserve one tree species in advance using the registration form.

-Pre‑registered trees must be picked up by 9:30 a.m. After that, unclaimed trees become first‑come, first‑served.

-On event day, you may select a second tree from what’s still available.

-Proof of residence is required.

-Tree experts will be on site to help you choose the right tree for your space.

-Everyone receiving a tree will take a brief planting & care class.

-Volunteers will help load trees and mulch into your vehicle.

Supplies are limited - the event ends when we run out of trees. Please plan to arrive early!
See the event page here for more information: https://bit.ly/4rwdgOc