Wildlife

Though small, snails play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning. These slimy gastropods enrich soils, recycle nutrients, promote plant growth, and provide food for many animals. Understanding the environmental benefits of snails provides insight into conserving these remarkable mollusks. What Do Snails Do for the Environment? As detritivores, keystone species, and prey, snails provide essential services …

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Understanding the consequences of overgrazing provides insight into more sustainable grazing practices. While grazing livestock can be compatible with healthy ecosystems, overstocking pastures triggers a cascade of environmental harm. Careful monitoring and adaptive management are key to preventing irreversible rangeland degradation. How Does Overgrazing Affect the Environment? Overgrazing degrades ecosystems through soil erosion, vegetation loss, …

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Hummingbird feeders provide a supplemental food source enjoyed by these captivating birds. But questions persist around whether feeders may harm hummingbird health or disrupt natural ecosystems. This article explores the environmental impact of hummingbird feeders. Are Hummingbird Feeders Bad for the Environment? When properly maintained and supplemented with native plants, hummingbird feeders pose minimal risk …

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Pill bugs, also known as roly polies, use their antennae to constantly monitor their surroundings and identify appropriate living areas. Pill bugs have specialized sensory structures that allow them to evaluate moisture, temperature, food sources, and the presence of predators or waste.  Read on to learn more about how these familiar isopods detect stimuli, choose …

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Animals, both domesticated and wild, have significant impacts on ecosystems and the environment.  Additionally, animals provide essential ecosystem services like pollination, seed dispersal, and nutrient cycling. Read on to learn how animals influence climate change, biodiversity, and access to resources. How Do Animals Affect the Environment? Animals affect the environment in major ways through actions …

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Mice play vital ecological roles by dispersing seeds, aerating soil, distributing nutrients, and serving as prey. Though considered pests, mice provide services that enrich soils, spur plant growth, spread fungi, and sustain a diverse array of predators. Read on to learn more about the surprising environmental benefits of mice. What Do Mice Do For The …

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Ladybugs are beneficial insects that control destructive pests, pollinate plants, and restore natural balance to the ecosystem. They are considered highly beneficial insects to gardeners because of their voracious appetite for soft-bodied pests that can decimate crops and ornamental plants. Read on to learn more about the important ecological services these spotted beetles provide. How …

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