While nearly 40 million people are hitting the road this Memorial Day weekend, we’re opting for a quieter approach – staying close to home and enjoying the local wildlife.

One of the highlights this time of year is watching the baby round-tailed ground squirrels at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. As soon as the morning sun warms the desert floor, these energetic little creatures emerge from their burrows – chasing each other, climbing rocks and trees, wrestling like siblings, and providing endless entertainment.

The round-tailed ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus tereticaudus) is a small desert native that resembles a mini prairie dog, with soft, sandy-colored fur and a short, rounded tail. They’re most active in the early morning and play a vital role in the desert ecosystem – both as prey for raptors and snakes and as natural soil aerators through their burrowing habits.

Watching the young ones explore and interact is a real treat this time of year, and a wonderful opportunity to capture some playful moments with the camera – if you’re patient, and a bit lucky.