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The greater Palo Alto area is home to a diverse selection of wildlife species due to its proximity to various habitats from redwood forests and chaparral-covered hillsides in the Santa Cruz Mountains to the wetlands along the San Francisco Bay. Whether your yard is downtown, stretches across the mountainside or is closer to the baylands, its landscape can be a vital source for wildlife. That’s why it’s important to know what type of trees are in your yard or which ones to plant to provide food, shelter and nesting sites essential for the survival of local birds, insects and mammals.
Native species are best adapted to the local ecosystem and provide the greatest benefits for local wildlife. Additionally, maintaining a diversity of tree species in your yard can further enhance wildlife habitat.
Here are some native trees commonly found on the Midpeninsula that support a variety of wildlife species.
California oak
California oaks, also known as valley oaks, can grow up to 100 feet tall. Their giant branches provide an excellent habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and bats. Their acorns provide a food source for many animals, as well. Because of their size, California oaks may not be appropriate for the average residential yard but are commonly found on larger properties, especially those in the foothills in communities such as Woodside and Portola Valley.
Coast redwood
“El Palo Alto” is probably the most famous coast redwood in the area. It’s the 1,000-year-plus historical landmark from which the city of Palo Alto derived its name. These trees thrive in climates with mild temperatures, well-draining soil and moderate rainfall and can be found in city parks, yards and nature preserves stretching from downtown to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Reaching heights as tall as 350 feet, the coast redwood has dense foliage that supports hundreds of species of wildlife, including nesting and roosting birds, frogs, toads, lizards and salamanders – some of which can live their entire life in a redwood canopy. Sparrows, wood warblers, bats, squirrels, deer and owls all can be found living among redwoods.
Western sycamore
Western sycamores, known for their mottled bark and large, distinctive leaves that resemble a hand with outstretched fingers, can grow as tall as 80 feet. They provide a nesting site and food for a variety of birds, including hummingbirds, red-tailed hawks and cavity nesters like woodpeckers. Deer, squirrels and small rodents are known to consume the tree’s seeds.
California Buckeye
California buckeyes are small- to medium-sized trees that produce clusters of white flowers in the spring. Their nuts are eaten by squirrels, deer and other small mammals. The tree also provides a rich pollen and nectar source for bees and hummingbirds. Its foliage provides a habitat for a variety of nesting and roosting birds. These natives can be found on the Stanford University campus.
Western redbud
Western redbuds are small, ornamental trees that produce pink or purple flowers in the spring. Their seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals, and they provide habitat for nesting birds. These trees are a good option for those who want to plant trees that are good for pollinators, especially bees.
George Reno is a local arborist at The Davey Tree Expert Company in Menlo Park, which serves communities on the Peninsula, including Menlo Park, Atherton, Palo Alto and Redwood City. If you have a tree-related question, email lifestyle@EmbarcaderoMedia or post in the comments section at the end of this column.