Hawks, Horses, and other Wild Things

I believe we have found our new favorite spot in Arizona. Wildlife photography is my passion, and this area has provided me a nice variety to photograph.

The other day we had to go into town and do laundry, go to the store, all that mundane stuff. We usually take our cameras with us, because you just never know what you’ll see. We were driving along when I saw this hawk on a saguaro. Al, being the good hubby he is, stopped and went back so I could get photos. I watched him for a while, and could tell he was getting ready to fly. They always get a little unsettled right before flight. And then…..

He flew to another saguaro that was not too far. We left him perched there. How on earth they stand on the cactus spines is beyond me. Such a handsome guy though.

On our return trip, we found a small band of horses. I was so excited to see it was the same band that has the adorable little filly I photographed last time we were here.

Everybody was peaceful, and resting.

Until this big red stallion thought he wanted to have his way with the white mare. She was having none of it though.

He chased everybody around in a big circle a couple of times.

Everybody eventually settled down again, but I’m sure he didn’t give up entirely.

I’ve seen a smattering of different birds too. This is a male Phainopepla. They are pretty common, but I really like them. They are always perched on the top of trees and bushes, and they sing so pretty. The red eyes are very unique.

I was walking through the desert when I heard a sound like a puppy whining. I stopped, and tried to zero in on where the sound was coming from. I finally saw this roadrunner, pretty far off, and he was the one vocalizing. I had no idea they make that kind of sound. It might be mating season, because after he took off, I could still hear him, and another one answering.

Cute little Black Phoebe on the river.

A Cactus Wren. These guys sing up a storm. I love them.

And, an Antelope squirrel. Cute little farts.

I have a ton of horse images to go through from the past two days. We were treated to quite the stallion show yesterday, and I can’t wait to share those with you guys.

Have a great Sunday.