Backyard Habitat Society

08/11/2026

The Xerces Society just posted new Plants for Monarchs that allows you to generate a list of native host and nectar plants that support monarchs wherever you live.

Post your zip code and get a full listing of a variety of plants to help nurture these vibrant insects! https://plantsformonarchs.org

08/11/2026

The Perseid meteor shower peaks this Wednesday night, August 12th into the early morning of Thursday, August 13th. A new moon is going to provide exceptionally dark skies, making it easier to see 30-50 shooting stars per hour away from the city lights.

Great viewing spots near Las Vegas: Temple Bar Resort & Marina, Valley of Fire State Park, and Red Rock Canyon.

08/11/2026

A group of goldfinches is called a charm---and these charming songbirds are a welcome and beautiful addition to any garden. Goldfinches are the last nesters of all the songbirds in North America. They wait until August when thistledown is ready for lining their nest and every coneflower and sunflower is going to seed.
If you see these little songbirds working your seedheads, they’re not passing through. They’re building a nursery. So, if your flowers are on their way out, leave a few standing. The charm of goldfinches will thank you!

02/20/2026

It's time to start planting!

02/19/2026

KEEP BUTTERFLIES AND BEES HEALTHY IN YOUR GARDEN
An executive order was issued this week to boost the controversial herbicide glyphosate. Glyphosate is a key ingredient in the commonly used and widely litigated weedkiller Roundup.
Using Roundup and chemical pesticides in your garden is discouraged due to health concerns (glyphosate is a probable carcinogen that is banned in Europe) and its negative impact on the environment and animals.
We all get weeds…please consider using natural sprays like horticultural vinegar, citrus oil or soap-based products to protect your health and wildlife!

02/13/2026

It's time for the Great Backyard Bird Count! What's in your garden today?

10/30/2025

08/26/2025

Happy National Dog Day!
Celebrating dogs and their companionships to humans! As a protection reminder for your pets, keep your dogs away from artificial grass.
Artificial grass blades, if chewed on or swallowed leads to microplastics ingesting and digestive problems. It also gets hot in the sun, making it uncomfortable to walk on.
Even when designed to be non-toxic, there's always a risk of exposure to chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Keep your pets on natural surfaces to keep them healthy and happy!

08/21/2025

The importance of dark skies at night is often overlooked. You can follow the art of night across the globe through Under One Sky--DarkSky's annual 24 hour virtual conference, joining night sky waters around the world through engaging sessions and global storytelling on November 7-8th.
Register for an Early Bird Ticket (only $25) before September 1st!
https://secure.darksky.org/a/under-one-sky-global-conference-2025?emci=a13b2816-fa72-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&emdi=4ddb1c73-b973-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&ceid=4473609

08/14/2025

Bee Cups and Butterfly Feeders and Puddlers can be found across the internet or handmade for your garden at home. Fill them with a tiny bit of water for bees or add a pinch of sand (for minerals) and fruit slices for butterflies!