The place...

Though the vistas are strikingly beautiful, this is a harsh land. Temperatures in our canvas-topped observation platform reach the upper 90's daily and well over 100 in the sun. The fauna is classic Chihuahuan desert - yucca, mesquite, creosote and a variety of brittle grass clumps with a scattering of other cacti, thistle and other small, desert tolerant plants; many defended by arrays of thorns and bristles. During our first three days we enjoyed the dramatic clouds and afternoon rains of the season’s monsoons, but in the week since it has been clear and hot and dry. The greening grasses have retreated into their brittle old growth. A few, striking wild flowers recall the short bounty of moisture. Pronghorn and bison have moved on to greener browse and, other than the continuing array of birds, the wildlife who now visit are of the rabbit, ground rodent, lizard, tortoise and occasional rattlesnake varieties. We are relieved that the falcon fledglings have developed to a point where we are able to leave for naps and AC through the midday hours.