Turning up the Skillet

Does White Tackstem propagate this way?

Being back in the lower desert reminds us that hot summer days are on their way.  Somebody has definitely turned up the heat on the skillet.  Nevertheless, Becca and I did a long hike into the outback west of Tortugas Mountain to see what photo opportunities existed there.  I had my Canon Powershot SX60 HS with me, but Becca carried only her cell phone camera.  We got some pretty good shots today.

Black-throated Sparrow singing for a mate

Range Ratany (purple flowers)

The Parry's Agave I've been watching has a 6' flower stalk now

Top of the flower stalk

Soaptree Yucca putting up a crooked stalk

Cocky Scott's Oriole

Female Scott's Oriole

Same female Scott's Oriole

Same female Scott's Oriole

Same female

Closer look at Soaptree Yucca leaves

Growth on a Prickly Pear pad

At rest, but always alert

Blackfoot Daisies

Old and the new

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Blackfoot Daisies

Climbing Milkweed

Climbing Milkweed closeup

Any shade will do

Bright green of Mesquite Trees west of Tortugas Mountain

Desert Marigold

Ocotillo flowers

Soon to be Soaptree Yucca flowers

Desert Blister Beetle