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| Riparian ramble with bonus coo, AZ | |
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| | Riparian ramble with bonus coo, AZ | | | |
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Riparian ramble with bonus coo, AZ
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| Walk / Tour | 4.88 Miles |
75 AEG |
| | Walk / Tour | 4.88 Miles | 2 Hrs 20 Mns | | 2.66 mph |
| 75 ft AEG | 30 Mns Break | | | |
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| no partners | | I've been meaning to make it out to the riparian preserve to have a look, but hadn't managed it before now. Needed to get outside for a bit, so I figured I'd swing by and check it out, with hopes of seeing if I could spot any unique birds that might be migrating through - alas, it may still be a bit early for migratory birds. Plenty of mallards, several coots, a couple of cormorants, some black phoebes, a great blue heron, several egrets, a whole passel of pigeons, along with plenty of others. The rock squirrels, turtles, and cotton tails were also enjoying the day.
The paths were wide and nicely maintained - there are benches scattered around along with a few blinds to facilitate bird watching, with some interpretive signage to help with bird identification and to learn a bit about riparian areas in the desert. In addition to the playground for the wee ones, there's also an orienteering course if you'd like to practice your skills with a compass.
Right now, several of the ponds have been drawn down and allowed to dry, others looked a little low, and the primary one was full. Got started late morning, so the temps were pretty warm and there weren't as many people out, though there were still several others either out for a walk, bike ride, or run. A few folk were there with their kids, and a couple people were there attempting to fish in the pond that was full. Even with the temps on the warmer side, the mesquite bosques were noticeably cooler. Unfortunately any attempt to sit and watch the birds resulted in my getting feasted upon by mosquitoes...so if you ever decide to visit, don't forget your bug stuff.
As for the bonus coo, a friend suggested that I park over at Carl's Damaged Pet Warehouse, a privately owned "petting zoo" of sorts with cows, goats, sheep, donkeys, and turkeys amongst the residents. If you'd like to feed the animals or entice them over to the fence, bring your own snacks to share with them - they appreciate a variety of produce...you could swing by Superstition Ranch Farmers Market for inexpensive produce if you don't have anything at home. A list of acceptable treats is posted for reference (google for location and more info).
If you have small ones at home, or if you're looking for something relaxing to do, you might consider a visit! I was plesantly surprised, and I hope to carve out some time to visit again to see some of the migratory visitors. |
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Wildflowers Observation Isolated
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Gilbert Riparian Preserve |
51-75% full |
51-75% full |
| | | Wasn't paying super close attention to count, but several of the ponds are currently dry and at least one pond is low. | | _____________________
Happier when hiking....I may not move fast (and I'm often distracted by wildflowers), but I'll get there eventually  |
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