Salty Lake

Brine shrimp. Migratory birds. Amphibians. Reptiles. Explore Utah's Great Salt Lake's unusual habitat!

1. Utah's Great Salt Lake, near Salt Lake City, Utah, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. An inland salt water lake, the Great Salt Lake had its beginning when the ancient Lake Bonneville of the Great Basin evaporated, leaving behind the Great Salt Lake, the Utah Lake, Sevier Lake, and the Great Salt Lake Desert containing the famous Bonneville Salt Flats.

2. Although Lake Bonneville was primarily a freshwater lake, it was formed by many tributary rivers, which carried salt from the surrounding countryside to it. As Lake Bonneville became smaller and smaller, the salt became more concentrated in the water, which explains the salinity of the current Great Salt Lake.

3. Many species of birds, amphibians, and reptiles live in the wetlands and marshes surrounding the lake. They feed on the tiny brine shrimp that live in the lake, as well as the brine flies that surround it. The water is too salty for fish and other aquatic animals.

4. To draw the Great Salt Lake and its ecosystems, research information about this unusual body of water and the creatures who live there.

5. Use Crayola® Washable Gel Markers to draw the marshes, wetlands, and waves of the Great Salt Lake on dark construction paper. Use colors that remind you of water, such as blue, green, and white.

6. Cover your work area with newspaper. Blend areas of the waves with a damp Crayola Paint Brush for a salty, briny effect. Dry.

7. Add your favorite migratory bird, dining on tiny brine shrimp, or amphibians and reptiles living in the wetlands and marshes.

Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project.

Climbing Koala

Double-Sided Butterfly Pendant

Welcoming Cat Sculpture

Crafts

crayola supplies

• Paint Brushes
• Gel Markers
• Construction Paper

household supplies

• recycled newspaper
• paper towels
• container(s) of water

"The ecology of the Great Salt Lake is fascinating. This project prompted our study of migratory bird patterns."
Luis F., scout leader.

"My kids are really curious about deserts and lakes. The Dead Sea also fascinates them."
Miranda S., home-school mom of twin boys, age 9.

The salt content of the Great Salt Lake varies, depending on evaporation. It is generally more salty that the ocean. The average salinity of the ocean is 30.8%, while the Great Salt Lake averages 32.8%. Many salt companies harvest salt from the Great Salt Lake.