Native Nature

Native Nature. Growing native plants is a way for people and wildlife to coexist.. , Helping Wildlife Thrive , A New Kind of Habitat , Cities are the world's fastest-growing ecosystem, but one of the least understood. , , Lincoln Park Zoo's Urban Wildlife Institute is a leader in the emerging science of urban ecology. , , Zoo Horticulture , This is one of several prairie gardens at the zoo, including the 14-acre Nature Boardwalk. , , Features like this have earned Lincoln Park Zoo accreditation not only as a zoo but also as an arboretum and a botanic garden. , , [Caption for photo at center:] , Some farmers add strips of prairie plants to their fields. These protect soll quality and reduce dependence on fertilizer and pesticides. , , Perfect for Their Place Native plants provide food and shelter for their area's unique mix of wildlife. They also prevent erosion and soil degradation due to their long roots. , , Because they are adapted to their environment, native plants can thrive with less water and use up fewer resources. , , Prairie by the Lake , Years ago, plants like the ones in this garden stretched from Lake Michigan to the Rocky Mountains. , , More than 99 percent of the prairies that once filled Illinois are gone. Native plantings help prevent their total disappearance. , , [Caption to photo in right-center:] , Dozens of volunteers work with expert staff to maintain gardens all over the zoo. , , Take Action With Us , Make Room for Wildlife , If you garden, choose to grow plants that are native to your region. , , Allow leaves and sticks to rest undisturbed after summer ends. They can be important in creating winter habitats for native wildlife.