Tucson dances in the desert like an aged, still lovely senora twirling her colorful skirts out across the Catalina mountains. She steps lively in the barrio, gives a nod of appreciation to the University of Arizona and takes the arm of history at San Xavier del Bac. Colorful, fun and friendly.

Barn Owl

The Sonora Desert Museum features raptors who are losing their habitat.

 

 

San Xavier del Bac

Father Kino went West for God, gold and glory, not necessarily in that order. God reordered his priorities and he founded the San Xavier del Bac mission in 1692. It has been lovingly restored by European artists.

Harris Hawk

We watched this Harris Hawk grab his share of a small bird, pluck its feathers, wrestle the meat from the bone and devour it.

 

Biosphere 2

In contrast, Biosphere 2 bills itself as “where Science lives.” Built is 1982, it is a wonder of mechanical engineering. Today the U of A is conducting a Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO) experiment.

Murals abound in Tucson. In the barrio district the history of the Hispanic people who settled Tucson is preserved on this wall. Refresh yourself at landmark Cushing Street Bar & Restaurant across the street.

Not all icons are old. This fairly new image represents the creation of man, coming from heaven to earth and returning to heaven.