In Norbury you can enjoy the presence of diverse wildlife. From the cheerful robins and melodious blackbirds to the playful squirrels and elusive foxes, these animals add to the natural beauty of our area. But did you know that they are also at risk from the litter we leave behind?
Litter may seem harmless to us, but it can have devastating cons equences for wildlife. Everyday objects that we throw away without thinking can become deadly traps or hazards for animals.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the common types of litter that harm wildlife, and what you can do to prevent them.
Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are one of the most common and dangerous types of litter for wildlife. Birds and small mammals can easily get entangled in them, leading to suffocation or choking. Plastic bags can also block their digestive systems if they swallow them, causing starvation or poisoning.
What you can do: Always tie a knot at the top of plastic bags before recycling them, or better yet, use reusable bags instead. If you see a plastic bag lying around, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Plastic Can Holders
Plastic can holders are another type of litter that can entangle animals, causing severe injuries or even death. Animals can get their heads, necks, or limbs stuck in the loops, cutting off their circulation or preventing them from escaping predators.
What you can do: Always cut the loops of plastic can holders before disposing of them, or avoid buying products that use them altogether. If you see a plastic can holder lying around, pick it up and cut it before throwing it away.
Containers and Cans
Containers and cans, if not properly disposed of, can become traps for animals searching for food. They can get stuck or injured by sharp edges, or suffocate if they can’t get out. Containers and cans can also leach harmful chemicals into the soil or water, affecting the health of wildlife and plants.
What you can do: Always clean and empty cans and tubs after use, pinch cans shut, and cut containers in half before recycling whenever possible. If you see a container or can lying around, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Elastic Bands
Elastic bands may seem harmless, but they can pose a threat to wildlife. Small animals and birds can get entangled in them, cutting off their blood flow or restricting their movement. Elastic bands can also cause choking if swallowed by animals.
What you can do: Reuse elastic bands where possible or cut them open before disposing of them in the bin. If you see an elastic band lying around, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Fishing Tackle
Fishing tackle is another source of harm to wildlife. Lines can entangle animals, and hooks can pierce their skin or be ingested. Fishing tackle can also damage habitats by snagging on plants or coral reefs.
What you can do: Fish responsibly and properly dispose of fishing litter in designated bins or take it home with you. If you see fishing tackle lying around, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Disposable Vapes
Disposable vapes have emerged as a new type of litter that is endangering wildlife. Improperly discarded vapes pose a choking hazard to animals, and can also leak toxic chemicals into the environment. Disposable vapes are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down.
What you can do: Educate yourself and others on how to safely dispose of used vapes by placing them in general waste or designated recycling bins, instead of discarding them on the streets. If you see a disposable vape lying around, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
Broken Glass
Broken glass, often found in littered areas, can cause serious injuries to both humans and animals. Animals can become trapped in glass jars, and broken glass shards can inflict severe cuts or infections. Broken glass can also reflect sunlight and cause fires in dry areas.
What you can do: Always ensure that glass is cleaned and recycled properly to prevent injuries and unnecessary suffering. If you see broken glass lying around, pick it up carefully and dispose of it properly.
As you can see, littering has a negative impact on the wildlife that lives in Norbury. By disposing of our rubbish responsibly through recycling, reusing, or using appropriate bins, we can protect the well-being of the remarkable animals that share our community. Let’s come together and make a positive difference, one piece of litter at a time.
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