Four months ago, Jackie won the advanced lottery for The Wave for Tuesday, October 29th. We invited our friend Mike T. to join us this time. The weather forecast for the week is favorable, except for some wind on Tuesday. We leave early on Sunday morning to stop at the Navajo Bridge at Marble Canyon,…...

Lately, I've had the pleasure of observing a group of four juvenile Cooper’s hawks. According to Wikipedia, the Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is a medium-sized hawk native to the North American continent and found from southern Canada to Mexico. Known for their agility and distinctive hunting skills, these raptors are skilled fliers that prefer wooded…...

Next Friday marks a year since my mom passed away unexpectedly on June 14th, 2023. As this day approaches, I've found myself reflecting on the past year and how much she meant to me. There hasn't been a day that I haven't missed her or thought about her.My mom was more than just a parent;…...

Like many years before, the world’s tiniest herons, the Least Bittern have chosen the Gilbert Water Preserve to have their chicks this summer. Adapted uniquely for marsh life, this elusive bird and its charming chicks paint a picture of resilience and natural beauty that captivates bird lovers every year.Watching the babies evolve from fluffy feather…...

Arizona's wilderness harbors hidden marvels, among them the Southern Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus), a majestic raptor adding an aura of mystery to the desert landscape. Its remarkable adaptability is evident in its presence from the southern United States through Mexico, Central and South America, and even some Caribbean islands.Distinguished by its bold appearance and commanding…...

In the serene landscapes of rivers and waterways, a charming dance of nature unfolds as river otters engage in their delightful mating rituals. For the first time ever Jackie and I were able to witness their behavior. River otters often form close-knit family groups. These groups typically consist of a dominant breeding pair and their offspring…...

Arizona's vast and diverse landscapes are not just a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts; they are also home to a myriad of fascinating bird species. Among these avian treasures is the striking White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi), a bird that captivates with its subtle elegance.The White-faced Ibis is a migratory bird found throughout North and…...

I recently learned about a population of Coatis at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum – the oldest and largest botanical garden in Arizona. While we have been living in the United States since 2009, I only saw one Coati several years ago. I could not miss this opportunity to get a closer look at these adorable…...

As we approach the holiday season, a mix of emotions envelops this time of celebration. This Christmas holds a special significance - it's the first without my beloved mom, who sadly left us in June, and a close friend, who passed in September. Their absence is deeply felt, adding a touch of melancholy to the…...

Coyotes (Canis latrans) play a vital role in Arizona's diverse ecosystems, adapting seamlessly to the state's arid and varied landscapes. Commonly found throughout the region, these highly adaptable canids are known for their intelligence and resourcefulness. In Arizona, coyotes thrive in a range of environments, from deserts and grasslands to urban areas.Their diet is incredibly…...