10/23/2026
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Leave the leaves!
Help our wildlife critters survive
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Hello from a Habitat at Home!
Did you know death is an important part of a healthy wildlife habitat? Fallen leaves, dried wildflower stems, downed branches, and standing dead trees all help wildlife survive. For example, insects, other invertebrates, and fungi break down dead leaves, adding nutrients to the soil and helping it hold water. The same decomposers become food for birds, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. The healthier soil helps plants grow, producing flowers for pollinators and fruit for birds and other animals. Even bats are involved – eating the night-flying pollinators. When autumn comes around, leaves fall again and the cycle continues.
So, celebrate death in your wildlife habitat! Leave the dead fallen leaves on the ground, don’t trim the dead stems of wildflowers until the spring, place logs and branches throughout your habitat, and leave dead trees standing when it’s safe to do so.
For more information on how to support wildlife where you live, work, and have community, visit https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/living/habitat-at-home
Apply to certify your wildlife habitat! We certify small container gardens, yards, and community spaces. Habitat at Home participants receive a free sign, stewardship tips, a native pollinator pack, and more. Your participation helps wildlife and supports conservation across Washington! Learn more and apply online.
Photo by Steph DeMay.
