Austin is going above and beyond to protect America's wildlife. In fact, the National Wildlife Federation has ranked Austin No. 1 on its list of the Top 10 Cities for Wildlife in America.
The National Wildlife Federation ranked the largest cities in the U.S. based on percentage of parkland, citizen action to create wildlife habitat, and school adoption of outdoor learning in wildlife gardens. Based on those factors, "Austin is a clear-cut choice as America's best city for wildlife," says the organization.
Austin boasts the most Certified Wildlife Habitats (2,154), the most backyard habitats per capita and the most schoolyard habitats (67). The city is also certified as a Community Wildlife Habitat. "Its residents not only want to Keep Austin Weird — they’re the best in America at keeping their city wild."
A variety of cities from across the U.S. are found on the list. "The common thread between these cities is that citizens are coming together for a common purpose — to create a community where people and wildlife can thrive," says the National Wildlife Federation.
America's most wildlife-friendly cities are as follows:
- Austin, Texas
- Portland, Oregon
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Washington, D.C.
- Seattle, Washington
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- New York City, New York
