Creating a wildlife habitat in your backyard is a great way to support local ecosystems while enjoying the beauty of nature right outside your door. West Jordan, Utah, has a semi-arid climate with diverse wildlife, and by making small changes, you can turn your backyard into a sanctuary for birds, pollinators, and small animals. Here’s how to get started.
1. Incorporate Native Plants
The foundation of any successful wildlife habitat is native vegetation. Plants that naturally occur in Utah are better adapted to the local climate and provide food and shelter for native wildlife. In West Jordan, native species like sagebrush, Utah serviceberry, and desert marigold are excellent choices. These plants are drought-tolerant, which is a key benefit in Utah’s dry climate, and they attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Why Native Plants Matter:
Native plants support a more stable ecosystem by offering resources such as nectar, seeds, and fruits to local species. They also require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants, reducing the need for heavy irrigation and chemical use, which benefits both wildlife and the environment.
2. Provide Water Sources
Water is essential for attracting wildlife, especially in Utah’s arid environment. Installing a birdbath, small pond, or water fountain in your backyard can offer a much-needed hydration source for birds, insects, and small mammals.
If space allows, consider adding a pond with gently sloping edges to allow animals to safely drink and bathe. Regularly clean your water features to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure the water remains fresh.
3. Create Shelter and Nesting Areas
Providing shelter is crucial for wildlife, particularly during Utah’s extreme weather conditions. Birds need places to build nests, while small mammals and reptiles need cover from predators.
You can create natural shelters by adding brush piles, logs, or stone piles, which will attract lizards, toads, and other small animals. For birds, installing nesting boxes or leaving dead trees (snags) standing will encourage them to nest. Shrubs and dense plantings also offer natural cover from the sun and wind.
4. Reduce Lawn Space
While lush green lawns may be appealing, they offer little value to wildlife and often require significant water and chemicals to maintain. Reducing lawn space in favor of planting wildflower gardens, shrubs, or trees can significantly increase the biodiversity of your backyard.
A meadow or wildflower patch, filled with plants like bee balm, sunflowers, or blanket flower, will attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These low-maintenance areas require less water and offer critical habitats for insects that pollinate crops and flowers.
5. Avoid Pesticides and Chemical Fertilizers
Chemical pesticides and fertilizers can harm wildlife by contaminating their food sources and poisoning the soil. Opt for organic or natural alternatives when managing pests and weeds. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, such as encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs or using organic sprays, can help you maintain a healthy garden without chemicals.
6. Plant for All Seasons
To support wildlife year-round, include plants that provide food and shelter during each season. For instance, serviceberries and chokecherries produce fruit in summer, while evergreen trees like juniper offer shelter in winter. By planning a diverse garden, you ensure that wildlife will find resources in your yard no matter the time of year.
Creating a wildlife habitat in your West Jordan backyard is a rewarding way to contribute to the environment. By incorporating native plants, offering water, and reducing chemicals, you’ll attract and support a variety of species while creating a peaceful and natural oasis. Not only will you enjoy a more vibrant backyard, but you’ll also be helping local ecosystems thrive in an urban setting.
Ready to elevate your Salt Lake county landscape? Give us a call at 801-300-6445 or contact us here.