Arizona Photography

 Since returning from my trip to the Anza-Borrego Desert, I've only gone birding once.  However, my one visit to Ash Canyon was a lot of fun.  Several birds appeared after their winter migration, and I learned the sanctuary built a new blind while I was away. Pine Siskin Pine Siskin Bewick's Wren Lesser Goldfinch (M) Yellow-rumped Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Orange-crowned Warbler Orange-crowned Warbler Curve-billed Thrasher Chipping Sparrow Scott's Oriole (M) Scott's Oriole (M) Scott's Oriole (F) Hooded Oriole (M) House Finch (M) Gila Woodpecker (M) Lazuli Bunting (M) Rufous Hummingbird (J/F) Rufous Hummingbird (J/F) Broad-billed Hummingbird (M) Broad-billed Hummingbird (M)

 Wrapping up my time in California, here are a few random photos to round out that story.  I can understand people who live in the community of Borrego Springs, where they have the conveniences of city living, even if it is expensive.  Those who live off-grid, sometimes in rudimentary housing, are harder to under stand.  But, quite a few choose that life and seem to enjoy the solitude and independence it provides.  I was really taken by one of those in particular.  Somehow it seems like it's just them and the Roadrunners. I also wonder how so many plants survive such a harsh environment, but they do, and even thrive.  Of course, certain plants have evolved and adapted to such extreme conditions.  But the plants at the local nursery have to be coddled to reach their potential. On my way home, I stopped overnight in Casa Grande.  As I came into town, I saw large masses of yellow wildflowers.  Naturally, I drove back later to check them out...

 One highway in Anza-Borrego that I had not driven before proved to have some very interesting geology.  The road crossed over quite a few deep gullies, or canyons, that were extremely rugged.  At the bottom of each were tire tracks, indicating these were part of the off-road playground.  I would have enjoyed exploring them, but only if I had my old Jeep. I also ran across more wildflower areas that made me wish I had been there a couple weeks earlier.