Nature in my Neighborhood- Binta

 For this assignment, I chose to walk around the back side of my apartment complex. Even after living here for several months, I never paid any mind to the nature that’s all around my home. It’s easy to overlook the nature tucked among the sidewalks and streets. However, when I slowed down and was intentionally looking, I was surprised by how many pretty things there were to photograph. 

Wildlife is another highlight of my neighborhood’s natural landscape. In the mornings, I often see birds flying between branches, their calls filling the air. Sometimes, I’ll spot a rabbit darting across a lawn or a black squirrel climbing a tree. The most interesting animal I’ve encountered is a deer. It reminded me that even in developed areas, animals will find ways to coexist with humans.

In terms of health, I’d say nature in my neighborhood is a mix of thriving and struggling. Litter and pollution from nearby roads sometimes harm the environment’s overall well-being, but nature’s resilience shines through in surprising ways.

One unexpected place where nature thrives is in the cracks of the sidewalk. Tiny patches of moss and dandelions emerge from the smallest openings, an example of nature’s resilience. Similarly, my driveway has clusters of weeds and grasses that seem to grow overnight. These tiny ecosystems, which are often overlooked, are fascinating when viewed up close. I find it quite amazing how nature doesn’t need a sprawling forest or a pristine park to thrive; it can take root in the most unlikely of places. 

Reflecting on nature in my neighborhood has given me a new appreciation for the small, often unnoticed ecosystems around me.  Before moving to Bellingham, I never really appreciated the nature or environments around me. I love to travel and see beautiful sights, but never acknowledged the sights I had all around me. From the birds in the trees to the moss in the sidewalk cracks, these moments of natural beauty remind me of the importance of protecting and appreciating the environment, no matter where we live.