The Norwalk Garden Club supports the creation of backyard habitats for our wildlife, especially during the winter months.  Rather than throwing out your holiday greens, make a brush pile in a protected area of your yard to provide shelter for birds and other wildlife. Brush piles provide safe spots for chipmunks, rabbits,hibernating reptiles, amphibians, insects and ground-nesting birds. Leaves (especially shredded ones) help fertilize the soil and protect roots from extreme cold.  Provide water that won’t freeze! Our wildlife can expend valuable energy looking for water on extremely cold days. Invest in a quality heater for your birdbath, or have water supplies close to the house and keep them supplied with fresh water.