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Saturday, April 15, 2023

Back to Desert Photography

All raptor pics are of Swainson's Hawks
I took 125 photos this morning during the hike with Dr. K, Willow and Frio; most of the pics were of several Swainson's Hawks that appeared to be mating atop the distant yucca on the ridge west of the Organ Mountains.

I also got some decent photos of desert flora, specifically the Claret Cup Cacti that are in full bloom.  Our recent heavy winds wreaked havoc on the blooming yucca stalks stripping them of many flowers.

The weather for our trek was good today:  50F with bright sunshine and a little breeze.









Strong winds have stripped yucca flowers

Relatively intact yucca flower stalk


This & next 2:  Swainson's Hawks mating?



New growth on Prickly Pear pads

Willow and Frio

Mesquite leafing out

Desert Sumac

Mesquite leaves

Tree shadow in arroyo

This & next 2:  Claret Cup Cactus






 

1 comment:

Dr. K said...

Spectacular photos today, Packrat. My favorites are the ones where the Swainson's Hawk seems to be looking directly at you.

Another Swainson's Hawk Bushwhack

1st 2:  pair of Swainson's Hawks We did a long hike this morning, bushwhacking out of the left branch arroyo over toward 4210 hill where...