Life in the desert is a struggle for survival, but some species adapt quite well.
Here is the sage lizard. See how it blends into the environment, hiding out beneath the junipers? Its predators are hawks, snakes, and perhaps coyotes.
This lizard is very quick. When startled it usually darts into the shade, where it is harder to see. Sometimes it will freeze, which is fortunate because it's the only chance we have to get a photo.
This little bird seemed to have a nest nearby and didn't flit away instantly as its kind usually does. I think it's some variety of flycatcher. We see them in the tops of the juniper trees. They probably eat the juniper berries and use the tree branches for shelter and nesting.
I believe this is a lark sparrow. We saw two of them hopping along in the sand. This one stopped on an ant hill and pecked up a few of the tasty (I assume) insects.
Here is the sage lizard. See how it blends into the environment, hiding out beneath the junipers? Its predators are hawks, snakes, and perhaps coyotes.
This lizard is very quick. When startled it usually darts into the shade, where it is harder to see. Sometimes it will freeze, which is fortunate because it's the only chance we have to get a photo.
This little bird seemed to have a nest nearby and didn't flit away instantly as its kind usually does. I think it's some variety of flycatcher. We see them in the tops of the juniper trees. They probably eat the juniper berries and use the tree branches for shelter and nesting.
I believe this is a lark sparrow. We saw two of them hopping along in the sand. This one stopped on an ant hill and pecked up a few of the tasty (I assume) insects.
I've seen these fast little guys in the desert here in AZ - they flit away before I can click a photo! Maybe that's why I'm also seeing a lot of hawks seemingly hunting.
ReplyDeletelove the lizard shots-- and the bird shots. I'm enjoying your trips to the desert
ReplyDeletePhew! I'm glad to hear you're only assuming the insects were tasty.
ReplyDeleteI love to see the little lizards skittering about. Don't recommend eating the bugs.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure that living in the desert can be hard for some of the critters, Janie... Great post ---and I love the pictures, especially that sparrow.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Betsy
The lizard's camouflage is marvellous - essential as it has no natural defences, not even an unpleasant taste, presumably.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots and nature lesson.
ReplyDeleteJanie, these are wonderful captures and you are very quick and patient. We were just talking about some kind of lizard that we need to import(not really) that eats European starlings which are becoming a problem here on the islands as an introduced species. Your spring flower collection on the previous post is outstanding....isn't walking wonderful!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteSmiles and have a wonderful long weekend.
These are some fascinating shots of desert survivors. I'm very impressed that you got the lizards to stop and pose for you.
ReplyDeleteA desert full of life! Great pictures Janie!
ReplyDeleteI love seeing all the desert dwellers. The lizard is actually kind of cute.
ReplyDelete