Spring is a wonderfully busy time for urban wildlife. Take advantage of the season and our wild neighbors by enjoying nature hikes, watching the dazzling array of birds in our area, and following these tips.

• Drive carefully, especially near forest preserves, parks, and other natural areas. Especially later in the spring, inexperienced young animals may venture out into the road. Be especially cautious during the dawn and dusk hours. Keep to the speed limit; allow enough space between cars; and scan the edges of the road.
• In spring, animals like squirrels, mice, raccoons, and foxes are looking for ideal nesting sites. If you prefer not to host wildlife in your home, prevention is key - so much easier than trying to rid your home of unwanted visitors later. Take an hour or two now to inventory your home for possible entry sites, and seal them before new residents move in. If wildlife has already started unpacking, a bit of patience goes a long way. Try to wait until newborns are on their own before trying to evict wildlife visitors.

• Animals are establishing new nests in the spring, so avoid cutting trees and shrubs and applying pesticides' and herbicides.
• Think strategic gardening. Want to attract wildlife to your backyard? Consider plants and landscaping that lure birds, butterflies, and others. Hoping to deter animals from your garden? Now is the time to think about growing plants they do not enjoy and building fences around the types they do.