Dear Neighbors,
Our skies and trees are bustling with activity. From the colorful flutter of hummingbirds to the coming distinct sounds of cicadas, our neighborhood is a live stage for some of nature’s most fascinating events. Here’s how you can engage with and prepare for these seasonal changes (and a reminder about pet waste).
Bird Migration Through St. Louis
Each spring, St. Louis serves as a crucial haven for thousands of migrating birds (717,800 last night alone) seeking rest and nourishment during their arduous journey. To assist these travelers, consider participating in the “Lights Out” initiative by turning off or dimming unnecessary outdoor lighting from 11 PM to 6 AM during peak migration times. This reduces light pollution, making night skies safer and more navigable for the birds. Additionally, you can help by providing water sources and planting native plants that offer natural food and shelter. Keeping cats indoors during migration seasons also greatly increases the survival rates of these weary-winged visitors. Together, these actions create a more hospitable environment that supports the health and safety of migrating birds.
Above, a rare Painted Bunting. Photo Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation
Welcoming Hummingbirds
The arrival of hummingbirds is a treat as the spring days start to warm. These tiny, energetic birds travel thousands of miles from Central America to grace our gardens. To support them, consider putting out a hummingbird feeder filled with a simple sugar solution (four parts water to one part white sugar, boiled and cooled). Avoid red dye in the solution, as it is unnecessary and can be harmful to the birds. Instead, use feeders with red components to attract them.
The Great Southern Brood of Cicadas
We are already seeing signs of the emergence of the Great Southern Brood of cicadas. While the idea of swarms of cicadas may seem daunting, they play an essential role in our local ecosystem. Cicadas help aerate the soil, and after they die, their bodies provide a significant nutrient boost to the soil. They also offer a bounty for local wildlife, feeding birds (another reason to support our fine feathered friends), squirrels, and even pets.
Not as glamorous as a solar eclipse, their activity can provide a unique learning opportunity for families and nature enthusiasts to observe and document an event that happens once every several years.
Those wishing to protect young trees from the egg-laying practices of cicadas, which can damage tender branches, wrap the trees in fine netting or cheesecloth until the brood has diminished.
A “Paws-itively” Clean Neighborhood!
We all treasure our walks through the neighborhood and adore our furry friends, but pet ownership comes with essential responsibilities—like keeping our community clean! Scooping up pet waste promptly isn’t just about avoiding the dreaded shoe catastrophe; it’s crucial for preventing the spread of germs that can affect other pets and people. Plus, it ensures our sidewalks, parks, and lawns remain free from those unexpected and unwelcome surprises. By picking up right away, we maintain a safe and pleasant environment for everyone. So, let’s keep it clean—it’s a simple step that helps everyone enjoy their stroll without any unpleasant interruptions!’
Finally – We Need Your Snaps!
As we work to enhance our neighborhood website, we’re calling on all residents to help capture the spirit of our community through your lenses. Do you have photos that truly represent the beauty, events, or everyday life in our neighborhood? We’d love to feature them! Your photos can help showcase our vibrant community in newsletters, on our website, and in other materials. Please share your best shots by emailing them to [email protected]. Whether it’s a blooming garden, a community event, or just a typical day around the neighborhood, your images will help bring our community’s story to life.