12/19/2025
Great tips to keep in mind this winter!
‘Tis the season for festive cheer but some common holiday decorations can pose serious risks to wildlife! Here are some ideas on what to use and what to avoid:
Natural décor isn’t just beautiful - it’s biodegradable, safe for wildlife, and supports sustainable habits. Try using:
🌲 Pinecones, evergreen boughs, and cedar garlands (just be sure to source responsibly!)
🍊 Dried citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries (indoors)
⭐ Upcycled wood ornaments
❄ Paper snowflakes or garlands
Care should be taken to avoid some items outdoors including:
❌ Tinsel & Mylar garlands - animals can ingest or become entangled in shiny plastic strands
❌ Artificial snow (spray-on frost) - contains chemicals that can contaminate soil and water, harming insects, birds, and small mammals
❌ Fishing line, wire, or sparkly ribbon used outdoors - these create entanglement hazards for birds and squirrels
❌ Edible decorations outside (like popcorn strings) - they can attract wildlife into unsafe areas, encourage dependency on human food sources, or lead to conflict
If you’re also hanging decorations outdoors, make sure they’re securely tied so they don’t blow away or become an entanglement risk, and remove promptly after the holidays.
Wishing you a bright, eco-friendly, wildlife-safe holiday season!
is a campaign run in partnership with LEAF - Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests and Ontario Power Generation