How to turn your Raleigh yard into a mini wildlife haven

A grassroots effort is helping central NC properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.

Pink and purple hydrangeas sit in front of a white bird house with greenery surrounding.

The WRAL Azalea Garden has so many colorful flowers.

Photo by RALtoday

Want more from your lawn than just grass? You could turn it into a mini “national park.”

Meet Homegrown National Park, a nationwide grassroots movement that invites property owners to restore wildlife habitats through sustainable planting and the removal of invasive species.

Here’s how it works: Swap a portion of your lawn for native plants that support food webs for local fauna, then watch your yard transform into a natural oasis where wildlife thrives.

Registered habitats are tracked on a digital biodiversity map, so you can see which Oak City neighbors are pitching in.

Ready to get started on your own turf? Learn how to register your green space and browse beginner-friendly planting tips.

More from RALtoday
Mayor Janet Cowell delivered the 2026 State of the City address at the City of Raleigh Museum on March 18 — here’s what you need to know from this year’s address.
This one-of-a-kind floral fundraiser is at the NC Museum of Art through Sunday, March 22.
March is here, and Triangle basketball is better than ever. See where Duke, UNC, and NC State men’s and women’s basketball teams landed during March Madness and where to see them play next.
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
Give your kiddos a summer filled with fun at these local summer camps.
Oscar Diaz, from Durham’s Little Bull and Aaktun, is one of 15 “cheftestants” on season 23 of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and we learned more about his favorite local spots at the Charlotte premiere.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.