As we spread over the planet, wildlife has to adapt and learn to live closer to us.
Some animals do this better than others.
But many cities now have specific land set aside within or next to their boundaries as wildlife refuges. These may also have associated rehabilitation centers, and learning centers, with nature trails. The title photo is Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, 23,000 acres within the boundaries of New Orleans. The land was once destined to be drained and developed. Fortunately wiser ideas prevailed. It is now breeding ground, rookery, and migration stopover for tens of thousands of birds of many species, as well as much other wildlife.
Far smaller refuges have their place too. Bay Beach Wildlife Refuge is only 600 acres, belonging to Green Bay Wisconsin. A hundred years ago, it was destined to be a golf course.
Two Ponds Refuge is the smallest urban unit of the National Wildlife Refuge system, only 72 acres in the suburbs of Denver. It has hiking trails, guided tours, and educational opportunities.
Oaks Bottom Refuge in Portland OR was rescued from being a landfill.
Great things can be done when people put their minds and hearts into it!
PWBPeeps is a group that posts a daily diary and nightly open thread for animal lovers. We share photos, seek & give advice about pet health and behavior issues, support each other in times of sadness and stress, celebrate together when times are good, and on most days have an inordinate amount of fun.
You are welcome to join us!
Here are few not-too-onerous PWB rules
- Do not “Troll” the Pootie Peeps Diaries. If you don’t like animal diaries, there’s no need to tell us about it. Just go find some other diary more to your liking.
- Whatever happens in the outer blog STAYS in the outer blog. This is a place to relax and play; please treat it accordingly.
- If you would like a pic from the comment threads, please ask the poster. He/she may have a copyright to those pics. Many thanks!
- There are some pics we never post: snakes, creepy crawlies, any and all photos that depict or encourage human cruelty toward animals. These are considered “out of bounds” and will not be tolerated.
- If you’re not sure about an issue...please ask. Someone is always glad to help.