Creating A Backyard Habitat

DERBY — The Naugatuck Valley Audubon Society, Inc in cooperation with the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Kellogg Environmental Center, will host a program called “Enhancing Your Backyard Habitat for Songbirds and Butterflies.” The presentation will be given by DEP Wildlife Biologist Peter Picone on Tuesday, April 19, at 7:30 pm, at Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Avenue.

Mr Picone will discuss basic concepts of backyard habitat management and focus on improving conditions for songbirds and butterflies. His presentation will provide specific information on native plants required for wildlife food and cover.

“Well-intentional gardeners and landscapers use invasive, nonnative species because they are unaware of the ecological issues surrounding their use, and because they are readily available at garden centers,” said Mr Picone.

Attendees will learn about how to choose native plants that are good for the environment and for creating habitat for wildlife in their backyard.

Mr Picone will also touch on invasive species that are especially important to avoid.

Peter Picone is an expert on enhancing habitat for wildlife. He lectures widely, and has authored a guide called Enhancing Your Backyard Habitat for Wildlife. He specializes in helping the public learn how to improve habitat for wildlife on small acreage’s using habitat enhancement techniques.

Kellogg Environmental Center is operated by the DEP Office of Communications and Education.

A donation of $4 will be requested for Mr Picone’s program. For further information, directions or to register, phone the Kellogg Environmental Center at 734-2513.