Probably my all-time favorite body of water, and while I know it’s grandiose to say that about a little stream, it is my favorite. It was very lush in that part of the Jemez when a friend and I went up a few weeks ago.
Ladder-Backed Woodpecker
I heard something tap-tap-tapping on a cholla early one morning. I waited until I could see what was making the sound, and was rewarded for my patience when this cute little guy flew out and onto another cholla. You can probably guess how he got his name.
Claret Cup Cactus Blossoms
The claret cup cactuses bloomed in profusion this spring. This particular plant was hidden under a low bush. I had never noticed it until one morning when I saw a flash of bright red — the sun was hitting the blossoms just right at that very moment. I got down on my hands and knees and managed to stick my lens through a small opening in the bush to nab a few shots.
Sotol in the Organ Mountains
The Organ Mountains are covered with sotol which, of all the yuccas and agaves, is hands-down my favorite. (It’s neither yucca nor agave, but looks and acts a bit like both.)