Normally Wile-E-Coyote tries to catch the roadrunner, but this morning it was hanging out in the irrigated farm lands of Mirana, Arizona. This area does very well for birding, but not to many folks spend time in this non traditional Tucson location. In fact, not only do you get to see lots of birds, but one may drive by and view the  Pinal Air Graveyard. I saw a lot of Boeing 747’s this morning that will fly no more.

Anyhow … a few pics from my morning’s efforts.

Wile-E-Coyote

Yellow-Headed Blackbirds

American Kestrel

American Barn Owl

Molly and I decided we deserved a quick getaway after all the health issues for both of us. Over the years we have grown to like Oro Valley just north of Tucson … for both birding and bicycling. The bike trails are extensive and keep you off the busy roads as the trails wind their way through the washes. On the birding side of the equation I like some locations that are north of town, and do not see many birders. Today I spent time first at Catalina Pond (not the state park). This wild area has a small pond, and water attracts life in the desert habitat. My other stop was the town of Oracle, Arizona. Once again while there is a state park near this town, my birding tends to be focused on a small quiet park in town. Oracle is about 25 miles north of Tucson, and has enough elevation change that it sees more precipitation than down in the desert. The town park has many trees which provide food for hungry birds. Enjoy … some images from this morning!

Red-Tailed Hawk

Acorn Woodpecker

Cactus Wren

Western Bluebird

Phainopepla