The Museum sits on 98 acres with 3.2 kms (2 miles) of walking paths covering 21 acres. Much of the property is covered with natural growth and cacti.
Hedgehog
Saguaro Cactus with Crest
“A Crest can be developed when the growing point, or merristem (which produces new stems and spines or leaves), elongates into a line. In time the growing line may become greatly convoluted, like a brain. This phenomenon has been observed in nearly all plant species; its cause is generally not known”(sign near the cactus)
The Museum offers all kinds of guided tours and demonstrations throughout the day. We chose to go to the Raptor Free Flights demonstration that featured a Peregrine Falcon.
There were three trainers working the birds. They were able to communicate with each other and could somehow direct the flights of the birds. The birds would dive and swoop down over our heads and then perch on a branch or cactus to have their pictures taken. Like I said, we took over 150 photos – it was so difficult to decide which ones to share!
Raptors
Owls
Barn Owl
Hawks and Falcons
Hummingbirds
Resting Cougars
Bob Cat
Need I say it was a memorable visit?
2 comments:
Nice photos. I love going there.
Jaimie
BEtween Tucson and Ajo, plan, if traveling during the week, to stop at Desert Rain Cafe in Sells. Great food, nice little restaurant which features native foods. Every item on the menu has at least one ingredient which has been part of the traditional Tohono O'odam culture. Hummus made using tepary beans, agave used as sweetener. Besides several regular items, there is a daily special. The Thursday ribs, with sauce from native ingredients is super. From Tucson direction you can turn at the first sign that says "Sells Business District" and follow it around to the small shopping center which includes Basha's grocery store, the post office, this restuarant. It is actually easier to go to the other end of the loop, go past the hospital. The parking lot of the shopping center is small, but if coming from hospital end, after you cross the bridge and just before the shoppng center on the left is a large dirt lot. I parked my motorhome and tow there. Could probably also park at edge of gas station on other side of the street.
Chef, IvaLee Pablo is great. Special experience to eat there.
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