Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Tucson has more museums than you might imagine. One of the more interesting outdoor examples we found was the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. It’s kind of a cross between botanical garden, modern zoo and hiking trail. All of the habitats, especially on the outer, unpaved trail, seemed very natural and open. Some were designed with invisi-wire that made it feel like you were walking right next to the animals. We came around one corner and a coyote was lying under a tree yawning right in front of us. Wolves jogged around in circles waiting for lunch. Javelinas nosed around the shrubbery and gathered under a stone bridge where there was shade and a bit of water. There were many other examples of indigenous plants and animals, and docents were posted here and there providing more specific information and giving presentations. We got some interesting facts about the agave cactus this way. Later, we sat in on a presentation by some herpetologists about venomous snakes and lizards of the desert. The Gila monster looked pretty in salmon and black until she pooped on the demonstration table, and the rattlesnakes didn’t stop rattling the whole time.

For some widlife photos click here- http://s78.photobucket.com/albums/j97/d3loeber/Tucson/Arizona%20Sonora%20Wildlife%20Museum/