First, they came for the bees. Then, they came for the butterflies... Auntie D (not her real name) is the founder of CJ's Place for pollinators and a fierce advocate for wild things whose practical approach to habitat restoration in an urban setting has led to multiple run-ins with the law. When her municipality in Michigan entered her property, literally destroying hives and cutting through caterpillars, Auntie D chose to fight back--and she won! 

Initiatives designed to create edible native gardens are in progress throughout the country, encouraging young and old to enjoy once-common species in beneficial and enticing ways. Remember: Native species support an entire food chain; so, if you don't enjoy eating wild foodstuff it's ok. The "critters" certainly will!