Don't Get Rattled

Tortugas and the Organ Mountains

50F at the start of our hike this morning, felt like 46F due to a 9 mph wind.  Sunny, though, so it didn't feel cold.  Dr. K, Willow and I followed our regular route noticing that the air was quite dusty from yesterday's all-day wind.  We saw several other outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs in the distance east and west of us.  Most notable thing about today's trek was the small rattlesnake (Western Diamondback) that Willow and I walked right next to; we didn't see it until Dr. K pointed the rattler out.  It was warming itself in the sun and wasn't at all bothered by our presence.  We took an extra long drive after our outing today.

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Desert Marigold

Artsy Ash-throated Flycatcher

This & next:  Willow on break

This & next:  young, very small Western Diamondback

This & next: Walkingstick Cactus (Cylindropuntia spinosior)

Walkingstick Cactus flower bud

 

Last 2:  Tree Cholla (Cylindropuntia imbricata)