Natural History Wanderings

DesertUSA  Wildflower overviews and links to reports and photos for  March 17, 2017 –

The 2017 desert’s super bloom wildflower season is close to its peak in some areas, but there should still be many wildflowers to see for the next few weeks. Joshua Tree NP, Mojave Desert and Anza Borrego DSP have many wildflowers in bloom now. Some cactus are starting to bloom. Southern California, Nevada and Arizona are also blooming. Weekends are very crowded – during the week is the best time to visit the desert. Reports below.

Note: Spring is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the desert, but it can also be a time for caution. Rattlesnakes lie dormant during the cold fall and winter months and awaken from hibernation in the warm months of March and April. Another reason to stay on the trails. More…

DESERT WILDFLOWER UPDATES BY STATE AND PARKS

Arizona Deserts

• Phoenix Area and Northern AZ – Updated March 17, 2017
• Tucson Area and Southern AZ – Updated March 17, 2017

California Deserts

• Anza Borrego DSP – Updated March 17, 2017
• Death Valley NP – Updated March 17, 2017
• Joshua Tree NP – Updated March 17, 2017
• Mojave NP & Amboy – Updated March 16, 2017
• Southern California – Updated March 17, 2017

Other Areas

• Northern California and the Northwest – Updated March 13, 2017
• Nevada and Utah – Updated March 17, 2017
• New Mexico – Updated March 7, 2017
• Texas – Updated March 10, 2017