We want to help you take action.
Our free guides are designed to help you confidently explore nature and create a beautiful, thriving backyard ecosystem that you can be proud of.
Don’t miss out!
Never miss out when we publish a new guide. Join the thousands of other Backyard Ecologists™ who have subscribed to the free The Backyard Ecologist’s Newsletter.
Free Guides
Discover Your Next Steps
Learn what stage you are at and receive practical “next steps” to create your own thriving backyard ecosystem.
Interactive quiz
3-minutes
3 Reasons Why Fall Is the Best Time to Plant
Spring is the traditional planting season, but fall is actually the best time for planting native plants.
4 page, infographic-style, e-book
2-minute read
An Introduction to Gardening with Native Plants: Hardiness Zones and Ecoregions
Did you know that garden hardiness zones are unimportant when it comes to gardening with native plants?
9 page e-book
10-minute read
The Difference That Leaving Your Leaves Makes
Short summary of new scientific research and actionable steps you can take.
1 page checklist
1-minute read
Jim’s Tips for Observing and Photographing Moths
Get practical tips for observing and photographing moths.
1 page checklist
1-minute read
Symptoms of Laurel Wilt Disease (and what to do if you see them)
Learn common symptoms of Laurel Wilt Disease and what to do if you see them.
1 page checklist
1-minute read
Tips for identifying ground nesting bees
Get practical tips on how to identify our ground nesting bees.
1 page checklist
1-minute read
Checklist for Creating a Thriving Backyard Ecosystem
Get practical tips from on how to transform a small, suburban yard into a thriving ecosystem.
1 page checklist
1-minute read
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.