Juab County: Where Every Bird Tells a Story

Juab_is Utah bird country.

Situated along major migratory routes, Juab County is a bird-watching wonderland. Birders can observe hundreds of bird species across Juab’s diverse habitats, especially near the many streams, reservoirs, and other water sources. Bird watching against a soulful landscape with lush rolling hills and unspoiled deserts feels like being part of Utah’s best-kept birding secret.

Where to Bird in Juab County

Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge

Situated at the southern end of the Great Salt Lake Desert, the natural springs of Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge have served wildlife and humans for over 11,000 years. The refuge was first established for Pacific Flyway migratory bird management. Over the years, habitat management expanded to meet the needs of a broader diversity of species with a primary focus on wetland-dependent migratory birds and species vulnerable to being classified as endangered.

Mona Reservoir and Surrounding Creek Area

Mona Reservoir and the surrounding creek area offer a variety of aquatic and riparian habitats, attracting a broad range of bird species. The reservoir’s accessible shoreline allows birdwatchers to get close to many birds without distributing them. Also located along migratory bird routes, the area is an important stopover for migratory birds.

Burraston Ponds

A go-to spot in Juab County for local birders, Burraston Ponds are uber clear bodies of water fed by natural springs. With trees everywhere, this wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of wetland-dependent birds. Located along migratory routes, the ponds serve as an ideal stopover for migratory birds. Gorgeous mountain backdrops and an all around attractive environment make Burraston Ponds a wonderful place to birdwatch.

Yuba State Park

Yuba State Park is home to varied habitats, including wetlands, the expansive Yuba Reservoir, and a surrounding desert landscape. This variety attracts a diverse range of bird species, including shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds. Birders will find several accessible areas for prime birdwatching throughout the park.

Mount Nebo National Scenic Byway

Utah’s Mount Nebo National Scenic Byway passes through several ecosystems, from sagebrush to aspen and spruce-fir. Across an elevation climb exceeding 9,000 feet, including the awe-inspiring red rocks of Devils Kitchen, bird enthusiasts will find a broad spectrum of bird species to observe.

A pair of sandhill cranes appeared over the horizon just as the sun dipped below the treeline, their calls echoing through the quiet dusk.

While sitting quietly by the lake, a heron landed just a few feet away, completely unaware of my presence.

As I paused to rest, a curious chickadee fluttered near, its cheerful song making the entire moment feel serene.

I bought my grandson a bird book, and now our special picnics at Burraston Ponds are filled with the joy of identifying and documenting the birds we hear. Watching him light up with each discovery is the sweetest reward.

I’ve kept a bird journal since the 1980s, but nothing warms my heart more than the hummingbird that returns to our patio feeder like clockwork each year. My family and I eagerly watch for its arrival, and we’ve even given it a name—it feels like welcoming an old friend.

Bird Varieties in Juab County

Be on the lookout for these eye-catching birds.
While these are the birds you are most likely to spot in Juab County, we can’t guarantee any sightings. However, one of the wonders of birding is you never know what will cross your gaze and the rush of joy and excitement when you do lay eyes on the embodiment of winged beauty. Head out to any of the locations listed above to uncover what they’ll reveal on the day of your visit.

Record your Findings

As you observe any of the following bird species in Juab County, help the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources by recording your spotting at eBird.org.

How to record a sighting?
Click “Submit” from the top of any page in eBird. First you’ll select where you went birding, an essential step to ensure your sightings are reported accurately. “Find it on a Map” is the fastest and most precise way to find a new location. Then, enter Date and Effort, and finally, the Species you spotted.

Learn More

While sitting quietly by the lake, a heron landed just a few feet away, completely unaware of my presence.

Birding 101: Safety & Etiquette

Know and follow these simple rules to stay safe and respectful of your fellow birders. The more bird-watching outings you get under your belt, the more safety and etiquette tips you’ll pick up. These will help get you started:

Safety

Plan Ahead
Before embarking on a day of bird watching, check local weather reports and research your destination for danger areas and safety information. Monitor weather conditions often and prepare for inclement weather and emergencies. Always tell family and friends where you’re headed and when you’ll return.
Wear Proper Clothing, Footwear, and Sunscreen 
Wear closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Pants protect you from outdoor pests, scrapes, cuts, and UV rays. Even if your outing is a short one, wear sunscreen.
Food and Water
Whether you’re out for a few hours or a multi-day excursion, always pack enough water, snacks, and food to stay hydrated and energized.
Bird Watch with a Friend 
Having at least one friend or family member with you lends a second set of eyes for spotting birds and looking out for danger. More importantly, if one of you becomes injured, you’ll have the help and support of a trusted companion.

Bring a Fully Charged Cell Phone 
Make sure your cell phone is fully charged to last longer than the duration of your outing. The ability to call 911 for help in an emergency is crucial. In addition to safety reasons and serving as a navigation tool, having your phone allows you to take advantage of birding apps that will help you identify birds, receive rare bird alerts, and more.
Prep for No Cell Phone Service 
If your phone dies or cannot get service, make sure you know your way in and out of your birdwatching location. Packing a map of the area or a printout of one is a great approach.
Remain Aware of Potentially Dangerous Wildlife
Remain aware of your surroundings for dangerous wildlife. Know which animals you may encounter in a specific location, how to keep your distance, and the steps outlined by authorities to handle such encounters if the animal gets too close. Use insect repellent, don’t leave food out in the open, and carry bear spray when necessary.

Etiquette

Establish a Safe Distance
Keeping a safe distance from any birds you are observing is essential. This is especially true if you see baby birds or a nest. Keep birds wild by not feeding them. When you feed certain birds, you risk altering their natural behavior in detrimental ways. Some birds are known to imprint on humans. When this happens, the bird loses itself in a way and, instead of hunting, relies on you as its food provider. Keep your distance and allow these wonderful winged beings to live naturally.
Trails
Stick to designated trails to ensure no plant life or other surroundings are damaged. Some birds construct their nests on the ground. The last thing you want to hear is an egg cracking beneath your shoe.
Pets 
While adventuring with our four-legged pals is the best, this is not the case when birding. Birds view dogs as predators. This leads to unnecessary disturbances that will alter your chance of viewing birds behaving as if you weren’t watching.

Binoculars and/or Lenses 
The trusty and highly recognized birding tool, binoculars, allows you to take in the action from a safe distance. Along the same lines, if you’re interested in bird photography, read up on which style is right for your needs.
Recordings 
Using recorded bird calls to attract a specific bird is often frowned upon. These recordings can lead birds to embrace unnatural behaviors, abandon their routine, and interact with humans. Another idea is to use your phone to record an unknown bird call or an app to identify which bird is producing it.
Drones 
Do not use drones while birdwatching in Juab County due to federal law restrictions. In addition to these restrictions, birds will see these drones as predators, threatening their safety.

Share your story

Every birding journey in Juab County holds its own magic, and we’d love to hear yours. Whether you’ve felt the excitement of discovering a rare species, found peace in nature’s quiet moments, or experienced an encounter that deepened your connection to birdwatching, we want to hear your story.

Click here for the form

As I paused to rest, a curious chickadee fluttered near, its cheerful song making the entire moment feel serene.