'Leave the leaves': Zoological Society of Milwaukee promotes leaving fallen leaves for wildlife 🍂

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is encouraging residents not to rake fallen leaves, promoting its "Leave the Leaves" campaign.

The initiative aims to provide natural shelter for wildlife, including insects like lightning bugs, bumble bees and various butterfly species.

In a press release issued Wednesday, Oct. 23, the society noted that leaving leaves on the ground helps protect pollinators during the cold months. People who prefer to rake leaves are advised that they can also move leaves into garden beds to create natural mulch and protection for insects.

To coincide with the theme of protecting butterfly species, the society is offering a limited-time animal sponsorship of monarch butterflies. A $50 sponsorship includes a butterfly snap bracelet plush toy, a milkweed seed packet and an invitation to a behind-the-scenes event at the zoo.

While monarchs do not hibernate in leaves, the Wednesday release says that supporting them is crucial for pollination efforts.

For additional information, visit the Zoological Society's Leave the Leaves page online.