Leave the Leaves
Simple changes to fall yard cleanup can provide critical winter habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.
Image courtesy of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee.
Consider taking an easier route this fall and don’t rake up or mulch your leaves. Instead, join the Zoological Society of Milwaukee and the Leave the Leaves campaign. It’s a simple conservation effort that helps protect insects and other wildlife.
Many insects rely on leaf litter to survive. Woolly bear caterpillars and the blue-spotted salamander use fallen leaves as shelter during winter, while new queen bumble bees depend on protected places to overwinter. Fireflies spend much of their lives among leaf litter, where their larvae develop before emerging as the beautiful summertime light show we all love.
How to Leave the Leaves
- Leave leaves where they fall. Allow a layer of leaves to remain in appropriate areas of your yard to provide wildlife shelter and natural mulch.
- Move leaves into garden beds. If you prefer a tidy lawn, rake leaves into garden beds, around trees or into planters to benefit wildlife and return nutrients to the soil.
- Protect local waterways. Keep storm drains clear of excessive leaf buildup, which can contribute to runoff and water pollution. Southeastern Wisconsin residents can also participate in Sweet Water’s Adopt a Drain program.
Community members interested in participating can request a limited-availability Leave the Leaves yard sign, blue-spotted salamander sticker or native, pollinator-friendly seed packets by emailing conservation@zoosociety.org.
About the Zoological Society of Milwaukee
The mission of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee is to conserve wildlife and endangered species, educate people about the importance of wildlife and the environment, and support the Milwaukee County Zoo.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by Zoological Society of Milwaukee
Schools Out; Zoo Camp is in!
Jun 8th, 2026 by Zoological Society of MilwaukeeSpots are still available for Zoo Camp.
A Little Local Give and Take
Nov 26th, 2025 by Zoological Society of MilwaukeeGive to a local nonprofit and take home meaningful benefits.
