A land of contrasts, Arizona's diverse landscape encompasses habitats ranging from the subalpine meadows of the San Francisco Peaks, to sunbaked deserts, to the mile-deep recesses of the world's greatest canyon. Native species include more than 475 birds, 130 mammals, 90 reptiles, 20 amphibians, 80 fishes and thousands of trees, shrubs and wildflowers. This beautifully illustrated field guide highlights more than 300 common and unique plants and animals and 100 of the state's outstanding natural attractions. It is an indispensable single reference for amateur naturalists, students and tourists alike. Made in the USA.
ISBN-13: 9781583553008
Media Type: Paperback
Publisher: Waterford Press Ltd.
Publication Date: 03-05-2018
Pages: 176
Product Dimensions: 5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.43(d)
Age Range: 10 Years
Series: Field Guides - Waterford Press
Zoologist James Kavanagh has made a career out of introducing novices to plants, animals, the sciences and world cultures. In addition to creating over 500 simplified nature guides, he has also authored guides to languages, cities and outdoor skills. An avid traveler and backpacker, Kavanagh's path has taken him around the world to many remote destinations including the upper Amazon, Africa, Australia and the Arctic Circle (and this is just the As). He is the author of field guides to the flora and fauna of some of the most ecologically diverse states, and whimsical children’s book on evolution.www.waterfordpress.com
Read an Excerpt
PALMS, YUCCAS AND CACTI
These common desert plants are familiar sights since most have been widely transplanted in urban areas. All are evergreen and differ from other trees by having trunks that lack growth rings.
Saguaro, Carnegiea gigantean
Size: To 50 ft. (15 m)
Description: Upright, stout trunk is ribbed vertically. Trunk usually grows 'arms' when 50-100 years old. Waxy white flowers bloom in May and are succeeded by fleshy red fruits in June.
Habitat: Rocky desert soils in southern Arizona.
Comments: The symbol of southwestern deserts, the saguaro is an important food source and nesting site for desert animals including woodpeckers, martins, owls, lizards and wood rats, to name a few. The fruits are used to make jellies and wine.
Show More
