With winter months approaching, Park Ranger Pam Tripp shares some bird watching tips…
The Snowbird is a common winter migrant easily recognized by its lightly covered, bright colored plumage. Traveling in well-appointed nests, they usually arrive in early January to take advantage of the warmer temperatures in the Mohave and Colorado Deserts. You’ll see them throughout the Park in campgrounds, visitors centers, hiking and nature trails, and basking on sun-drenched granite boulders. These hardy Snowbirds are of the two legged, human variety who show up in tank tops, walking shorts, and sandals, when the local folks are wearing layers of warm clothing, closed shoes and wool socks. Their well appointed “nests” are usually solar powered 5th wheels or motor homes or luxury trailers complete with slide outs that expand their living and sleeping areas. Here at Joshua Tree National Park we look forward to our returning winter guests. We delight in the enthusiasm of first time, as well as seasoned snowbirds as they discover our desert winter wonderland.
SNOWBIRDS MIGRATING TO THE DESERT
