If you're not ready to rewild but still want to help Santa Ana's environment, then here are some simple things you can do:
- Don't Mosquito Fog - Fogging kills mosquitos, but it also kills bees, butterfly, moths, or just about any insect that comes in contact with it. Alternatively, if you have standing water you can dose it with "Mosquito Bits" to kill the larvae without harming other insects. OC Vector Control can also help by doing a site inspector and talking to neighbors.
- Don't Spray Pesticides - Pesticides don't discriminate. Beneficial insects are often harmed along with the pests. In most cases, it's best to wait for predator insects to move in and take care of any pests.
- Don't Use Fungicides or Herbicides - These have been linked to declines in bee and other insect populations. Both fungicides and herbicides contaminate the bees' food and make them more susceptible to pathogens. The chemicals can also be expensive.
- Reduce Light Pollution - Switch to motion activated flood lights or use a warm "bug light" bulb to make the light less attractive to insects. These insects are attuned to sun and moonlight and always fly with the light on their backs. Artificial lights trick this natural instinct and force them to fly in circles around the lights, causing exhaustion. Warm tinted LEDs are less attractive and turning off the lights saves electricity.
- Leave Leaves - Instead of bagging or mowing leaves, use them as mulch. Many beneficial insects rely on leaf cover as shelter or food, especially during winter.
- Volunteer - Help local organizations like OC Habitats clean up existing wild areas.