Vince Pinto

Meet winter’s weird wildlife: veritable freaks of nature in some regards, sure to capture the imagination of the curious naturalist.

How animals, parasites, insects and plants get around.

Grasshopper mice, robberflies and Mala mujer are three relatively obscure local species who deserve our attention, admiration and protection.

We are not about to turn into Venus overnight. We don’t have to, however, for there to be catastrophic consequences for life as we know it – and yes, that includes us. 

What other northern parts of the globe have weather patterns similar to our monsoon and how does our resulting flora and fauna compare to theirs? 

One fine April day, binoculars in tow, I set out with the aim of finding, identifying, and appreciating as many species as I could.

Though our Raven’s Nest Nature Sanctuary hosts many raptors, it is the 18-ounce gray hawks that capture my imagination the most. Their characteristic call is a lilting, haunting whistle.

Sexual dimorphism abounds in the Sky Islands, from deer and jackrabbits to raptors, songbirds and rattlesnakes.

The dead of winter in Arizona’s Sky Islands can be an exciting time for those who watch birds — especially this year.