Flower Power

Cholla flower

Becca and I got in a long hike this morning along the upper foothills trail of Tortugas Mountain and then into the outback west of the outer loop road.  There were lots of interesting sights to see out there, but the first seven images here are from our property at home.  It was chilly again at the start of our hike (48F), but unlike yesterday there was full sunshine and less wind.  We ran into a few other outdoor enthusiasts in the desert, and it was nice to see others enjoying our special section of the northern Chihuahuan Desert.

Red Yucca

Tree Cholla

Red Yucca again

Desert Willow

Closer view of Desert Willow flowers

Just past full moon early this morning

Black-throated Sparrow singing its head off

Carefully checking the surroundings

Stingleaf flower

Soaptree Yuccas

Strawberry Pitaya Hedgehog Cactus

Strawberry Pitaya flowers

Strawberry Pitaya blossom

Parry's Agave

Looking down on the agave

Amazing flower plates

I'm hoping for full blossoms in a few days

Can't get any closer to blooming

Strawberry Pitaya next to a Parry's Agave

Prickly Pear flowers

Yellow flowers with sun shining through

Same Prickly Pear pad