Madera Canyon Picnic & Hike

Yesterday, Christine and I went for a picnic and hike in Madera Canyon. We hiked along the canyon's creek that was filled with flowing water. Everything around it was green. Guess they have had several monsoon rains. (Still not much at our place, though). What I like about hiking is that there is almost always something to photograph. Although nothing rare, here are a few of the photos from yesterday:

Wild Turkey

Wild Turkeys have been hanging around in Madera Canyon near the lodge for two years now. They stay close to the stream bed, but occasionally wander up the hill to the lodge.

Turkey Vulture

This is the season for Turkey Vultures. They are found throughout the US during the summer, although year round in the Southeast and Mexico. In my view, they are undeserving of their "less than wonderful reputation," because they are actually quite beautiful when seen up close; and the grace with which they soar and glide through the air is as beautiful as any bird. Even more so.

Mexican Jay

The Mexican Jay is found only in Arizona and Mexico. Like most Jays it is about 11.5 inches long, but with a little longer wingspan (19.5 inches).  A very noisy bird that travels in groups and loves picnic areas. I think as soon as I noisily opened the "potato chip bag" he was there. Of course he was gone after about two minutes when he realized I wasn't going to feed him.