As I started up part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) a few weeks ago, the thought crossed my mind, “I wonder if I’ll see a collared lizard today.” I have no idea why I thought that but bam! An hour or so later, I saw one. Then, perhaps 30-40 minutes after that, I saw a second collared lizard — this one — who actually posed for me. Both were extra-colorful males.
Ocotillo Blossoms
While ocotillos aren’t native to central New Mexico, they bloomed quite spectacularly here this year anyway.
Western Tanager, 2022 Edition
A male western tanager, high in the Sandia mountains.
Banana Yucca Blossoms
One of the prettiest banana yuccas I’ve ever seen.
Rio Chama Canyon in Spring
The cottonwoods lining the Rio Chama are decked out in brand-new spring leaves.