Arizona Nature

There is more to nature in Arizona that geology: mountains, canyons and deserts. Flora and fauna is varied and interesting, and here is a little bit:

This prickly cactus is in the Red Rock region.



On the trail to Bell Rock there was a variety of plant life, including lots of these.

This butte is near Phoenix. Saguaro and other cacti populate the hillside. This property is part of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.

Saguaro cactuses do not begin to grow arms until they are 50 - 100 years old. Mature cacti can hold tons of water, and are host to a variety of bird and other life. Many of the cacti have holes in them where Gila woodpeckers have made homes, and later other animals and birds use the holes to live in. Cactus wrens also make nests on the "shoulders" of the arms.

Up north near the Grand Canyon elk are common. And large. There was a male with antlers nearby, but we couldn't get a good picture of him

These crows (I guess) were pursuing this hawk, and the hawk was not happy about it.

Butterflies are common even in the desert.

And my favorite was this little lizard. It was only about three inches long, but was not at all intimidated by me pointing my camera.

I think he was trying to sell me some insurance, but I wouldn't listen. Next week it's back to commentary.