Good Morning

Is there a more raucous character than the Cactus Wren? I think not. I was sitting on my front step having my cup of tea and watching the world wake up around me when this individual flew in and took exception to my presence. I was severely scolded for several minutes before he decided that it wasn't working. 

Can I Come In?

At this time of year we have to be very careful where we walk at night as we have a lot of nocturnal neighbours. This beautiful big lady seemed to be rather keen to come inside the house. She was planted between the doormat and the door frame and I was a little flummoxed as to how I was going to slide the door open and get in without her joining me. I thought the vibration of the door sliding might bother her but luckily she didn't move and I was able to get in without her. Don't get me wrong, I love our tarantulas but I would rather they lived outside!

Dramatic Skies

Goofy I know but over time we have ended up naming some of the Saguaros on our land. This is Madala which is a term of respect for an elderly man. Madala has many battle scars where numerous creatures have made their homes over the decades. On this particular morning he was a perfect foil for the storm clouds rolling off the mountains.

Smiling For The Camera?

I love all the creatures that I observe on our land but some of them raise an extra large smile. This big Horned Lizard is one such character - what is not to love about that face? And all those spines! I must say he was a very obliging model who sat patiently with me sitting next to him taking dozens of photos and telling him how handsome he was.

Monsoon!

The drama of the monsoon season needs very few words. Everything just seems brighter, fresher and more alive.

Breakfast Is Served!

The Roadrunners have been chasing our baby quails and when I looked out of the window and saw this I thought one had been caught. I took the shot through the window (which is why it is so bad) and then waited for the Roadrunner to finish up before going out to see what was left of the meal. Well the good news - it wasn't a baby quail, I think it was probably a fledgling House Finch, hard to tell as there were only a few feathers left.

Waiting

Every evening after dinner my husband and I go 'on safari' around our yard. This has special sentimental meaning for us as we first met when I was living in Zambia, working as a safari guide and he came on safari. Anyway - ancient history but we still continue our tradition of night safaris. During the rains there is a mass of activity of all shapes and sizes. We have many beautiful Arizona Blonde Tarantulas around the yard. This one has made her burrow right near our front door. Here she is waiting for supper to walk by!