Living With Wildlife in the Sonoran Desert

Living in the Sonoran Desert is both enchanting and challenging, as it supports more plant and animal species than any other. We’re drawn here by that extraordinary diversity—by forests of trees alongside forests of cacti, and by wildlife found nowhere else. We delight in watching birds, butterflies, and lizards as they fly, flit, and skitter through our yards. Other creatures, however, can prove more challenging. Learning how to attract some while discouraging others is part of living well in this remarkable place.

Scorpions, Snakes, and Centipedes—Oh My

Even the challenging creatures have an important ecological role. Scorpions eat crickets and spiders. Termites break down woody plant material that would take centuries to decompose in an arid climate. Grubs turn soil. Pack rats disperse seeds as they forage. Nature is efficient, and every species plays a part. The challenge is how to live harmoniously with these animals.

When sharing space with wildlife, let three questions guide decisions: Is there truly a problem? What is the real problem? And what is the least invasive solution?

Is there a problem?

Not every unfamiliar creature requires action. That “bird-dropping” munching your citrus leaves is likely a giant swallowtail caterpillar. It may nibble a few leaves, but it will not harm the tree—and will become a stunning butterfly. Spraying pesticides kills the caterpillar, but also contaminates fruit and harms other creatures. Pause first. Then decide whether to intervene.

What is the real problem?

This truth is illustrated beautifully in The Biggest Little Farm. When chickens begin disappearing, the farmers assume wolves are the problem and kill them—only to discover their guard dog is the culprit. Worse, without wolves, the mole population explodes and devastates their crops. The lesson: before acting, search for the underlying cause.

A snake in the yard may feel like the issue, but the real problem could be the pack rats they feed on. Removing pack rat’s food and hiding places will rid the yard of pack rats and the snakes will go elsewhere for their supper.

What is the least invasive solution?

Be proactive and use the smallest action with the greatest impact. Consider these tips:

• Javelina: Never feed or water them. Use javelina-resistant plants, protect new plantings with temporary cages, and keep garbage cans closed tightly.
• Pack rats: Eliminate dense, dark shelter from grills and low-hanging shrubs, store wood off the ground, and store grills inside or leave them open to daylight when not in use.
• Termites: Store wood away from the house and avoid irrigating within three feet of your home’s foundation.
• Insects entering the home: Seal gaps around doors, windows, eaves, and scuppers.

Finally, let Nature do the work for you. A landscape designed with Sonoran Desert plants invites birds, lizards, and pollinators—Nature’s pest control team. These creatures keep insects in check, while providing pollination services. Before reaching for the Raid, create conditions that restore balance. A thoughtfully designed habitat garden works with Nature—not against her—and rewards you with a healthier, more resilient landscape.