BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is letting people know that they do not have to rake and bag their leaves every year, in fact, it may be good for the overall ecosystem of your yard to leave them.

"Where do little critters go during the winter? Many spend it in/under the leaves," the DNR stated. "Moths, bees, salamanders, turtles and many other species rely on fallen leaves for different stages of their lives, either hiding among the foliage or eating the leaves."

The department says that as you prep your outdoor spaces for winter, try not to be too orderly and that leaving a bit of natural chaos is just how many species like it.