There is Someone Living in My Agave!

Who's cheeky little nose is that peeping out?


This little baby came out for a snack on the agave leaf


Before snuggling down for a little snooze


Sweet dreams little guy.

Nature Notes hosted by Michelle at Rambling Woods.

Thorns and Fruits

Finding food in the desert is a prickly business and because the food is hard won the plants arm themselves with an array of spikes and thorns to ensure they are not over browsed.


The mistletoe berries are a bonanza for numerous bird species and insects.


The Cholla fruit must taste really good to brave these ferocious spines.




The setting sun creates the illusion that it softens the spines - don't be deceived!



Nature Notes hosted by Michelle at Rambling Woods.

Mr & Mrs

Just in time for Valentines Day...........
Black as jet, the male Phainopepla gleams in the early morning sun.


The female has a much softer grey hue.
When not obligingly posing for photos, both of them are happily feasting on the mistletoe which is fruiting right now.

The Eyes in the Sky

Although I loath the telegraph poles that skirt our yard, the numerous raptors love using them as a vantage point as they scout for a meal.

So Gentle

Is there anything more beautiful than a shy, gentle doe?


Walking quietly and cautiously through the vegetation, ever vigilant.

Huge Spirit, Tiny Body.

I love this little male Broad-billed Hummingbird. He is the tyrant of the corner of our house.


He chases off all other birds from 'his' feeders


and whenever we walk past he chatters his disapproval at us too (as if we were planning to steal his nectar!)


This magnificent little character is a huge presence in spite of his diminutive stature.

Nature Notes hosted by Michelle at Rambling Woods.

Catching the Reclusive One

He hides in the thickest thorn bushes.


He turns his back on me


But just occasionally I catch this classic beauty out in the open and manage to grab a couple of photos.

Was it something I Said?

This is one of those classic moments when you have to wonder what is being said!