Albuquerque is home to many species of urban wildlife that become more active during the summer, including squirrels, cottontail rabbits and turtles. Urban areas contain suitable native wildlife habitat in preserves, public spaces and back yards, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Human activity — including construction of roads, railways, pipelines, housing and cities — has caused habitat fragmentation, which blocks wildlife from reaching parts of their habitat, making their water and food sources harder to access. This can also directly cause injury or death if an animal is struck by a car when crossing the road, according to the International Fund for Animal Welfare.
The ABQ Backyard Refuge Program advocates for households to help with habitat fragmentation by creating safe spaces and even homes for wildlife.
By planting more native trees, wildflowers and grasses as well as providing water for species struggling to find natural water sources, people can turn their backyard into a refuge for wildlife. The ABQ Backyard Refuge Program certifies backyards, decks and patios as an “Albuquerque Backyard Refuge” through an application.
The squirrels, birds, ants, turtles and cottontails featured in this story found refuge on University of New Mexico’s campus, the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park and the photographer’s backyard.
Paloma Chapa is the multimedia editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at multimedia@dailylobo.com or on X @paloma_chapa88
Leila Chapa is the social media editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at socialmedia@dailylobo.com or on X @lchapa06
Paloma Chapa is the multimedia editor for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at multimedia@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @paloma_chapa88
