Backyard Biodiversity

If you've ever tried to tell a red oak from a white oak and felt a little lost, you're not alone. These iconic trees share a lot in common, but a closer look reveals some fascinating differences – ones that matter not just for identification, but for wildlife too. Leaf shape and bark texture matter, but the real story is in the acorns!

High above the ground, beyond what we can easily see, there’s an entire ecosystem teeming with life. The canopies of Ontario’s native trees are more than just a collection of leaves and branches – they’re bustling neighborhoods where birds build their homes, mammals take shelter and insects thrive. While we may admire trees for their shade and beauty, their canopies hold hidden wonders that help keep our urban forests healthy and full of life.

Garden pests often give insects a bad name, but many species are actually nature's little helpers. Embracing beneficial insects in your garden can support a healthy, biodiverse outdoor space. Read on to learn about four beneficial insects, how they help your garden and four tips for attracting them.

Native trees and shrubs are the backbone of thriving ecosystems, providing food and habitats for pollinators. In this blog, we explore four remarkable partnerships: butterflies and their host plants, specialist bees and native shrubs, leafcutter bees and their use of vegetation and hummingbirds and their favorite nectar-providing trees.

As winter slowly releases its grip and spring begins to emerge, many species of wildlife face a critical period where food sources are scarce, yet energy demands are high. Native trees, shrubs and plants play a crucial role in bridging this gap, offering essential nourishment to birds, mammals and pollinators during this challenging transition.