MONTGOMERY-As we head into fall we breathe a much-welcomed sigh of relief and say goodbye to sultry summer days. Crisp air filters in and leaves begin changing color, eventually fall to the ground bringing our not so favorite yardwork front and center. If you have trees in your yard or close by in the neighbors yard you know the leaves will eventually gather in mass amounts and then the work begins! So, the question is should I rake them or leave them lay?
Leaf raking is one of the most common yard practices that homeowners do each fall. However, there are benefits to letting the leaves lay where they fall. A variety of wildlife will use these leaves such as turtles, birds, small mammals and invertebrates. 
Fallen leaves provide protection from the elements and shelter, can be used as nesting material, and can decompose which creates substrates that encourage worms and beetles to flourish, providing food for wildlife. Also, many species of moth and butterfly caterpillars will over winter in fallen leaves. Other benefits to your yard include using the leaves as mulch in flower beds, decomposing leaves can be used to improve soil or make compost for your flower beds and garden.
This year consider leaving your leaves to not only benefit a variety of wildlife but also help your yard. You can save your precious time for other fun activities such as watching wildlife frolic in the leaves rather than spending time raking them!
Media Release/Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
