The Watcher

One evening when sitting in our sundown spot watching the evening draw in we got the sensation we were being watched. Sure enough, this diminutive character was perched on the highest twig, keeping an eye on us.

The Early Bird............

Waxworms are a great feeder favourite in our yard whether plucked directly from the feeder or hoovered up from the ground beneath as in the case with this Cactus Wren. Either way it seems, they taste very good!

At Days End

One of my favourite sunset views, everyday is different, unique and magnificent.

Lord of All He Surveys

Is there anything more ubiquitous with the desert than the Gambel's Quail? Except maybe for the dreaded Cholla, the skeleton of which this fellow is perched upon.

Hanging Around

The Gila Woodpecker is so loud and raucous it often overshadows it's smaller, (slightly) quieter cousin. I never tire of watching the little Ladder-backed Woodpeckers hopping about in the trees, chattering away as they forage for bugs and grubs.

Rainy Day Gems

A long soaking rain is rare in the desert so when it occurred a few weeks ago it stimulated a lot of growth of species we rarely get to see. One of which is this beautiful, delicate Desert Hyacinth Dichelostemma capitatum.

The bulbs of this species are deeply buried, dormant until stimulated by soaking rains. The bulbs were also eaten by Native Americans.

Cryptic

In contrast to the previous post, I suspect this image shows the tones that most people think of when you mention the desert. The little cottontail blends in so perfectly with its surroundings.

I am linking this post to Eileen's Saturday's Critters.

Spring Colour

It has been a mild winter with some good rain and now we are seeing the results, early spring blooms. This beautiful Verdin seemed quite taken with the aloe flowers.

Moss?

Being English I am very used to seeing moss growing all over the place. But it is just not something I associate with the desert. That is the delight of watching a natural environment year round, there will always be a surprise tucked away somewhere, waiting to be discovered.