sharing our landscapes with wildlife: a lesson from a family of sandhill cranes

one of the things i love most about spending time outdoors is being reminded that our landscapes are not just for us. they are part of a much larger ecosystem that supports countless species of wildlife. recently, i was walking through my neighborhood when i came across something that stopped me in my tracks—a family of sandhill cranes slowly making their way through the area. what made the moment even more special was knowing that these visits are rare. i typically only see the sandhill cranes once each year, making their appearance feel like a seasonal reminder of the beauty and wonder that still exists all around us. watching the parents carefully guide their young through the landscape was both inspiring and humbling, and it reminded me just how important it is to create spaces where wildlife can thrive.

seeing this sandhill crane family made me think about how important it is that we design our landscapes with nature in mind. as our communities continue to grow throughout naperville, aurora, plainfield, yorkville, batavia, geneva, glen ellyn, wheaton, downers grove, lisle, and the western suburbs of chicago, wildlife is often forced to adapt to changing environments. the choices we make in our own yards can either create challenges for local wildlife or provide valuable opportunities for them to flourish. every native plant we install, every pollinator garden we create, and every tree we preserve contributes to a healthier environment for birds, pollinators, and other beneficial species.

there is something incredibly meaningful about seeing wildlife return year after year. the annual arrival of the sandhill cranes feels like a sign that nature is still finding a place within our communities. moments like these remind us that even in developed neighborhoods, we have the opportunity to support the ecosystems that surround us. when wildlife chooses to return, it is often because the resources they need—food, shelter, water, and safe habitat—are still available.

too often, landscapes are designed solely for appearance, with large expanses of lawn and limited plant diversity. while these spaces may look tidy, they often provide little ecological value. by incorporating native plants, flowering perennials, ornamental grasses, shrubs, and canopy trees, we can create landscapes that are not only beautiful but also functional. these plantings provide food sources, nesting opportunities, shelter, and seasonal interest that benefit wildlife throughout the year while creating a more dynamic and vibrant outdoor environment for homeowners.

what struck me most about seeing the sandhill cranes was how connected everything truly is. a preserved wetland, a patch of native grasses, a mature shade tree, or even a thoughtfully planted backyard garden can all play a role in supporting wildlife. when homeowners, landscape designers, and communities work together, individual efforts become part of a much larger network of habitat. these connected landscapes help wildlife move safely through our neighborhoods and increase biodiversity throughout the western suburbs of chicago.

i believe some of the most meaningful landscapes are the ones that create harmony between people and nature. there is something special about sitting on a patio and hearing birds sing, watching butterflies move through a garden, or unexpectedly encountering a family of sandhill cranes on a morning walk. because these cranes only make an appearance once a year, the experience feels even more significant. it serves as a reminder to slow down, appreciate the changing seasons, and recognize the role our landscapes play in supporting the natural world.

as landscape designers, we have a unique opportunity to create outdoor spaces that benefit both people and wildlife. whether we are designing a backyard retreat in naperville, a pollinator garden in aurora, a native planting in geneva, or a sustainable landscape in wheaton or glen ellyn, every project can contribute to a healthier ecosystem. by working with nature rather than against it, we can create landscapes that are beautiful, resilient, and full of life.

the sight of that sandhill crane family is something i will not soon forget. their yearly visit is a reminder that nature is resilient, but it also depends on us. together, we can create landscapes that welcome wildlife, strengthen our connection to the outdoors, and preserve the beauty and biodiversity that make the western suburbs of chicago such a special place to call home.