
by Khadijah Rahim
Summertime! With warm weather and blooming plants, you might notice some friends in your backyard. These are the backyard buddies making their appearance! Keep reading to learn who the backyard buddies are, how to safely coexist with them, and how to educate others!
Backyard buddies are animals you commonly see in your backyard. They are chipmunks, squirrels, birds, raccoons, opossums, skunks, deer, bugs, rabbits, and any other wildlife critters you can think about! Oftentimes as they venture out they may snack on foods and plants in gardens making a mess and angering many. But it’s important to remember that is their natural instinct! Instead of harming them in an effort to keep them away, let’s learn to peacefully coexist with them; allowing them to be safe while protecting our gardens!
Many people use pesticide, rodenticide, and different types of poisonous sprays to keep these animals aways. However, the effects are never fully considered! If someone sprays rodenticide on their plants in an effort to kill rats, a bird might suffer the same death! A bird that captures a poisoned rodent can suffer secondary poisoning and die as well! Pesticide and rodenticide may often be fatal for raccoons, possums, skunks, and rabbits. Instead of poisonous chemicals, try these alternatives!
- Rabbits can be deterred using lavender, sage, and rosemary. While rabbits are repelled by these plants, humans are often drawn to them making it an excellent alternative! Bright colored flags may often scare rabbits and keep them from rummaging through gardens.
- Scavengers such as raccoons, skunks, and possums can also be kept away with natural substances! Peppers, onions, peppermint oil, cinnamon, and black pepper can keep these critters from meddling in your plants! Securing your garbage with a lid will also prevent them from tearing your trash apart!
It’s important to remember this planet is also home to many animals! Rather than harming them, let’s actively work to naturally coexist with them! Toss out the poisonous chemicals and opt for simple spices and plants you may have in your pantry. Create a new mindset of coexisting with these creatures rather than getting rid of them. Most importantly, spread your knowledge to empower others to make change too!