Creating a better future for wildlife can start right in your own backyard!
This spring, Potter Park Zoo launched Habitat Hero, a new conservation program designed to help community members create and improve habitat for Michigan wildlife. Through native plant giveaways, educational opportunities, and conservation action, Habitat Hero empowers people to make a positive impact on local ecosystems.
A Habitat Hero is someone who is committed to restoring and protecting native habitats through education, awareness, or direct action. One of the easiest ways to support wildlife is by planting native species that provide food, shelter, and nesting habitat for pollinators, birds, turtles, and other native animals.
To help make habitat restoration accessible to everyone, Potter Park Zoo has partnered with John Ball Zoo to host native plant giveaways throughout the spring and summer. These giveaways feature a variety of native grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers that are adapted to Michigan’s climate and support local wildlife.
Our first Habitat Hero native plant giveaway took place during our Turtle Day celebration May 24. Guests had the opportunity to learn about the importance of native plants while taking home species that can help create healthier habitats in their own communities. The enthusiastic response from visitors showed just how eager people are to take action for wildlife conservation.
The next Habitat Hero plant giveaway will take place July 7 and 8 during Zoo Days! Visitors can stop by to learn more about native habitats, discover how small actions can make a big difference, and take home native plants to start or expand their own wildlife-friendly spaces.
Tracking Our Impact
Every native plant added to the landscape helps create connected habitats that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife throughout Michigan. To measure the impact of the Habitat Hero program, participants are encouraged to add their planting locations to our interactive Habitat Hero map by taking a survey. As more plants are added across the region, we’ll be able to visualize the growing network of wildlife-friendly habitats created by our community and see the collective difference we’re making for Michigan wildlife.
Visit our Habitat Hero Impact Map to see where native plants have been planted and help us track the program’s conservation impact:
https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/bff6862602eb45dc910e71c7bf376100
Whether you have a large yard, a small garden, or even a few containers on a balcony, planting native species can provide critical resources for wildlife. Small actions taken by many people can create meaningful conservation outcomes.
Upcoming Habitat Hero Native Plant Giveaways
At Potter Park Zoo
- July 7 & 8 – Zoo Days, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- July 12 – World Snake Day, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- August 12 – Monarch Members’ Night, 5 – 8 p.m. (Zoo members only)
Community Events
- June 10 – Allen Farmers Market, 3 – 7 p.m.
- July 29 – Allen Farmers Market, 3 – 7 p.m.
Plant giveaways are available while supplies last.
By participating in Habitat Hero, you’re not just planting a garden, you’re helping build a healthier future for wildlife. Together, we can create a network of native habitats that supports Michigan’s pollinators, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and countless other species for generations to come.
Join us at an upcoming plant giveaway and become a Habitat Hero!
Written by
Marie Benner
Learning Program Coordinator
