Midweek Trek

1st 11 images:  Swainson's Hawk atop Torrey Yucca

We did our normal hike this morning, adding extra distance by bushwhacking over toward 4210 hill in order for me to take some photos of the Swainson's Hawk atop its favorite Torrey Yucca.  As you can see I took quite a lot of pics.

Later Dr. K and I saw the hawk take off from the yucca, soon replaced by another--presumably the mama.  Papa then went out to hunt for breakfast.  Willow didn't seem the least bit interested in the comings-and-goings of the raptors.

When we first started our trek today we saw the Basset people and their hounds down by the Tellbrook Arroyo.  Several of the hounds left fresh deposits in their wake, and Willow was supremely interested in what was left behind from their behinds.

This & next:  Willow on alert and at rest

Ancient Soaptree Yucca

Papa Swainsy hunting

Prickly Pear

This & next:  Mama Swainsy tending the nest

Ancient Soaptree

This & next:  young Soaptree sending up new stalks

Tripartite Soaptree in the left branch arroyo