Wintering Birds Return to the Arizona Desert

I am fortunate enough to live in an area of the United States that is home to plenty of winter birds. Our very mild winter climate in the deserts of Arizona creates a perfect environment for Canadian geese, shovelers, hummingbirds, and many other birds that leave us at the end of each spring. I am not a bird expert and don't even know the formal names of many of the birds that I see but I get no less enjoyment from watching them play in their new surroundings.

It is currently closing in on the end of October and for those unfamiliar with the Arizona desert climate, that means that we begin to leave 100 degree days behind and the evenings dip into the lower 70's at night. These cool temperatures signal the return of hummingbirds which are usually the first of the migratory birds to return. About two weeks ago my daughter and I were taking a walk and she spotted a hummingbird zipping along. It is difficult to sense when we are still experiencing 115 degree days that some areas of the country are actually cold enough for the birds to begin their journey but it is always exciting to see the first signs of their return.

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I live within a driving distance of a beautiful riparian preserve which I visit very often when the weather turns slightly cooler. During the summer, there are the hearty blackbirds, sparrows, and doves among others that stay with us. I will still visit in the summer but it seems as though the hearty birds fare better than I do when temps reach 115 by noon so I visit early morning and then head for the air conditioning of home. Many ducks, geese, and northern birds are gone almost completely during our rather toasty summer and leave at various times throughout the spring. Their return marks almost six months of discovery for me during which time I find peace and relaxation in watching their antics on the water or their preening on the shore.

This peace, relaxation, and the carefree nature of birds just enjoying their surroundings brings me happiness. Nature has a way of doing that for many. John Muir said, "And into the forest I go to lose my mind and find my soul". This mental escape is one we all need from time to time. I find this escape both in my travels and in simply immersing myself in nature. Finding joy in the moment is something worth seeking.

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