This past week I observed the phenology of the Sonoran Desert in Pheonix Arizona. Saguaro cacti create a habitat for many species including Elf Owls, Hawks, Mice, Cactus Wren, Woodpeckers, and other species. I was able to note signs of woodpeckers (holes in main trunk), and see crows, cactus wren, hummingbirds and a hawk throughout the trip.

I was able to identify the plant species better after visiting a local botanical garden. Aside from the very tall saguaros, the plant life remains relatively short and consists of shrubs, grasses, barrel cactus, prickly pear, and cholla. The rough outer layers and shallow roots throughout the plant species allow for better water absorption and retention. Because their trunks serve as photosynthetic infrastructure unlike the coniferous and deciduous woody species in Vermont, they can grow spines which serve many purposes.

My location is in Anthem just off the side of a main road. Because of urban sprawl, there is significant land in between towns and neighborhoods, so I just picked a spot that was representative of the area.