Two posts in one day!

Sonora Mud Turtle

Photos (and glasses) from Mark Hengesbaugh

Yes, it's a Sonora Mud Turtle (kinosternon sonoriense)! Confirmed by Bill and David. Seen by Jean and Mark today at the dam. Unlike the desert tortoise, the mud turtle is a carnivore. Keep your toes in your shoes.

Bloomin' Barrels, Batman!

Better than a barrel of monkeys!

Red, orange, and yellow flowers. Head out to the canyon soon for great views.

Not marshmallow!

Globemallow (genus Sphaeralcea) 

Rosemallow hibiscus coulteri

There is a third 'mallow' in the canyon. Indian Mallow or (genus) Abutilon. Lots of it along the road into Sabino Canyon. Not blooming yet for the post-monsoon, but look for the heart-shaped leaves and the remaining dried out seed pods - round, with (what reminds me of) a star in the middle.

Saguaro Forest

Along the Rattlesnake Trail, August 2010

Third time's the charm

Bush Spiderling

This photo was also taken by Matt Ball on 12 August, but it took me until today to identify. Looking through the firefly forest site a third time was the charm. More info. The flowers are VERY tiny. Smaller than the tip of your pinkie finger. Look for this among other plants along the big path/dirt road by the picnic tables in the area where SCVN does the elementary programs.

Puncture vine

Ditto on the date, photographer, and charm of three for i.d. More info and photos. Look for this in the turn-around circle in the same area. As always, let me know if I've made a mistake. It wouldn't be the first time - or even the third. amgreenvo at gmail

Water over the dam

Perhaps after posting this video, the rain gods will see fit to send more! (And then I'll post an update :-)

Video from Monday, 16 August 2010. Click here for water!

Three to see!

Arizona Blue Eyes

Trailing Four O'clock

Honeymat aka Woolly Honeysweet
All photos by Matt Ball