As the days grow longer and the sun starts to warm our souls, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the fact that we share this beautiful planet with countless little lives. Just like us, they are trying to exist, thrive, and survive. True kindness means extending our compassion beyond just humans to all creatures, great and small. Those who care for the tiniest, most vulnerable beings are the true heroes of our world, spreading much-needed love and good karma.

So, how can you help? It’s simple. Choose kindness.

No matter what creature crosses your path — an ant, a pigeon, a squirrel, or a fox — pause and think about how you would want to be treated if you were in their place. If we truly believe in equality and the power of love, then all lives matter. By adopting this philosophy, we contribute to a more compassionate world — one where respect for small lives naturally leads to greater harmony and peace in our communities. When we learn to appreciate and protect the little lives around us, we also cultivate a deeper sense of care for one another.

As an entomologist, this is my passion, and I love sharing it. There is no such thing as a pest — every creature plays a role in the ecosystem. By choosing to “live and let live,” we can make the world a better place for all beings, even those we may not naturally love.

If you come across a bird, squirrel, or any injured wildlife at the roadside, don’t just walk away — be the hero! Grab a box from a local shop, poke some air holes in it, and gently scoop the animal inside using the same method as catching a spider in a cup. Alternatively, if the animal is mobile, carefully throw a towel or jacket over it, wrap it securely (leaving its head exposed so it can breathe), and take it to a local wildlife centre. Avoid taking it to a vet, as many cannot accommodate wildlife for long-term rehabilitation and may have no choice but to euthanise. Instead, search for a local wildlife rescue, as they are best equipped to provide the care needed.

If you find an injured squirrel, warmth is essential for survival. Wrap it in a towel or fleece and place it in a ventilated box indoors. Do not offer food or water, as this can be dangerous. Instead, place a hot water bottle under the box, ensuring one side remains without heat so the squirrel can move away if needed. Again, avoid taking it to a vet — find a squirrel-friendly wildlife centre for proper care.

Every life is capable of suffering, so let’s show compassion. Whether it’s a squirrel, a parakeet, or a mouse injured by a cat, we can all do something to help. If your cat is a skilled hunter, consider fitting a bell on their collar to give smaller creatures a chance to escape. If you have rodent issues, opt for humane live traps so you can relocate them to woodland or parkland instead of using poison. Poison causes a slow and painful death, and worse, poisoned rodents often become food for birds or foxes, spreading the toxin further. There are kinder alternatives, however. Try high-frequency electronic deterrents (check online for pet-safe options) or place bowls of white vinegar in problem areas, since most rodents, rabbits, and foxes hate the smell.

Even small actions, like picking up a slug from a pavement and moving it to safety with a leaf, count as

good deeds. For gardeners, instead of harsh pesticides, try natural deterrents, such as talcum powder to keep ants away without harming them. Avoid over-washing patios and garden spaces, as many tiny, almost invisible creatures make their homes there — especially beneath large pots. If you must move them, lift gently instead of dragging to avoid crushing the little lives beneath.

I always say, the secret to our own happiness lies in the happiness of the lives around us. Big or small, every life matters. When we take care of the most vulnerable, the universe takes care of us in return.

For more creature kindness and good-karma tips this spring and summer, feel free to reach out! Email me at InsectLoversUnite@gmail.com or join my Facebook group INSECT LOVERS UNITE.

Some more good karma ways to lo stop little creatures without harming them

Slugs and snails

Place bamboo canes at each corner of your garden patch and wrap copper mesh around the base to create a mini barrier. You can also wrap copper mesh around pots. Be sure to relocate any slugs already inside, or you’ll trap them in! To further deter them, sprinkle coarse sawdust, finely crushed eggshells, or used coffee grounds.

Spider, moths and other bugs

Mix 20 drops of peppermint or citronella oil into a spray bottle and apply it to areas where insects typically enter, as well as inside wardrobes and drawers (avoiding direct contact with insects or pets). You can also use plug-in electronic deterrents, available online, for added protection.

Growing your own vegetables or flowers

After cutting vegetables or flowers, give them a firm shake upside down outdoors to release the hundreds of tiny, harmless insects that live on them. This helps ensure they stay in their natural habitat rather than being brought inside, where they won’t survive. Do the same when dead-heading flowers.