Natural History Wanderings

Joshua Tree National Park just posted a new wildflower report:

“Joshua trees are flowering at Black Rock, along the western part of Park Boulevard, and at Keys View. The southern, Cottonwood, area of the park is still the best place for wildflower seekers and Mastodon Peak, a three-mile moderate loop, starting from Cottonwood Spring is recommended for “flower hikers.”

Desert tortoise are beginning to emerge from hibernation to feast on the flowers (please give them space, and do not pick up these animals). And, if you spot some Canterbury bells that have had their flower stalks nibbled away, you’re seeing evidence of the desert bighorn at work!”

To see the full report which includes detailed locations and abundance of each species that is in bloom go to: www.nps.gov/jotr.