Backyard Ecology™ blog

Shannon Trimboli

Returning in early 2025!

The Backyard Ecology™ blog is for you if…

  • you’d rather read than listen to a podcast or watch a video.
  • you’re looking for tips and techniques that will help you attract more pollinators and wildlife.
  • you want to learn about native plants, especially ones that might work well in your yard or on your property.
  • you want to learn more about the interesting animals (butterflies, bees, frogs, birds, and everything in between) that you might encounter in your yard or on your property.
  • you want to learn more about common invasive species, including how to identify them and the native plants which make great landscaping alternatives.
  • you’re looking for fun, science-informed articles that get to the point and don’t waste your time.

The full transcripts of my podcast conversations with researchers, educators, and others can be found on the appropriate episode’s webpage. The transcripts begin in June 2023.

This was so helpful and clearly explained. Love the analogy of car repairs, losing a job, etc. and a GoFundMe. Very relatable!

I’ve been raising monarchs for several years and am doing a public program this fall at the forest where I work. I’ve been looking for a way to distill this confusing info down for the layperson. Thank you!

~ Ginny

What does the endangered species ruling for the monarch butterfly really mean?

Such an affirming and understanding article about leaves. Love the advice to mow a curving path in front to show you are “caring” for your property. No one wants to be judged harshly, as you point out.

~ Midge

Leave Your Fall Leaves for Pollinators and Wildlife

Very good information and tips! Changing the feed more often was a good nudge for me, and Tip # 9 was one I never thought about. I will leave one feeder out for any late migrators from now on. Thank you Shannon!

~ Linda

10 Tips for Feeding Hummingbirds: Hummingbird Feeder Safety and Beyond

Most Recent Articles

The full transcripts of my podcast conversations with researchers, educators, and others can be found on the appropriate episode’s webpage. The transcripts begin in June 2023.

Excellent article articulating both sides of the issue! Thanks!

~ Guido LaMoto

Should I Mow My Yard in May? The No Mow May Debate

I noticed a tree last year that I didn’t recognize. Figured, I would identify it one day.

After reading your article on the black gum, I think you have identified it for me. Glad to know it’s a good tree for wildlife.

Thank you again.

~ Darrell

Black gum: A wonderful wildlife tree that also works well in landscaped settings

Thanks so much for this article. My neighbor who has a wildflower meadow was just discussing this with me the other day, so I forwarded it to him! Very helpful.

~ Barbara

Pollinator Friendly Methods for Mowing Fields

Not sure where to start? Let us help with these curated selections.

Thank you!

These amazing individuals go above and beyond every month to provide financial support which helps us create so much free content for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

Megan Amaral, Julie Krygier, Lizabeth, Russel Furnari, Crystal Robinson, Karen Veleta, Kevin B, Sally Mirick, Crystal Dyamonds, Mitchell Bell, Laura Hunt, Sue Ann Barnes, Adrienne Richardson, J. Adam Perkey, Ariel, Cara Flinn, David Todd, LaVonne Fitts, Cathy, Michael, Tom Winner, Eric Fleming, Julie, SB H, Christopher Scully, Craig, Rachel Antonucci, Melissa Egbertson, Amanda Serenevy, Switzy, CotswoldsCottageMA, Vilma Fabre, Pia O Nomata, Tyler, Linda McNees, HerculesBiggerCousin, Patrick Dwyer, and Lilith Jones.

Eastern meadowlark singing

Want more in-depth help?

Would you like to receive personalized guidance and coaching as you create your own thriving backyard ecosystems?

Join us in the Backyard Ecology™ Community where you’ll get customized advice that is specific to you and your unique situation.

Backyard Ecology™’s Guiding Principles:

🦋 Curiosity: Nature is fun, interesting, and worth exploring. We will never know everything. Answers lead to more questions. That’s half the fun.

🦋 Balanced: You don’t have to choose. You can support nature AND have a beautiful property that you can enjoy and be proud of.

🦋 Science informed: Habitat creation and management should be based on the latest scientific research available. This is true regardless of whether you’re working in a small garden or on hundreds of acres.

🦋 Stewardship: Anyone can make a positive difference in the natural world and leave an ecological legacy on their property.