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Photo: Jay Pierstorff
Give the Gift of the Great Outdoors

Looking for a way to give a lasting gift of the Sonoran Desert beauty? Owl tell you all about it! A membership to ASDM includes everything people love: art, natural history, animals, as well as the botanical beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The best part of purchasing a gift membership? Purchase two gift memberships and receive a $5 discount on each membership! Make your purchase online or in person by December 9 to ensure delivery by December 25.  Gift Today!
Photo: Aaryn Olsson
Buffelgrass: Why You Should Care

You see all of that mustard yellow color in this photo? That's buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris). And it's threatening to destroy our beautiful desert and the animals that live within it. This invasive species is native to the savannas of Africa and Asia, where fires are frequent, but in the Sonoran Desert, buffelgrass fires could transform large swaths of our fire-proof desert into fire-prone grasslands overnight. Help us beat back buffelgrass on Jan. 21. Brave Buffelgrass!
Art: Sharon K. Schafer
Art & Conservation Symposium

Do you like art? Care about conservation? Join us for the Art and Conservation Symposium featuring acclaimed National Geographic photographer, Joel Sartore, sharing his work and personal stories. It starts on Thursday, December 8, followed by the opening of our two newest art exhibits,  Artists For Conservation International Juried Exhibit of Nature and Visions of Conservation! *The symposium is free with membership or museum admission. Curate Conservation!
Photo: Jay Pierstorff
Ho, Ho, Hummingbirds!

Why not give a hummingbird adoption to your loved ones for the holiday season? Your gift will help us provide the highest quality care to these captivating creatures. Packages start as low as $35! Each level comes with a personalized certificate, a beautiful 4"x 6" glossy hummingbird photograph, educational materials, and more. Adopt at the Enhanced level to receive a plushie and "Proud Parent" canvas tote. Questions? Email us. Purchase before December 18 to ensure Christmas delivery.  Adopt Today!

Photo: ASDM/Nika Kaiser
Flower Friday

Happy Flower Friday! Most Tucsonans are very familiar with this cactus. The chain-fruit cholla (Opuntia fulgida) is also commonly referred to as the "jumping cholla." While these cactus don't necessarily jump, their spines are so well-barbed that even the barest touch to skin or clothing is enough to break the connection between the joints. As always, when you are enjoying our gorgeous desert - watch your step. Accidentally get stuck? A comb is your best bet.  Dig Deeper! 

Pictured: Tom Christensen
Volunteer Viernes

We would like to congratulate our November volunteers of the month, Tom Christensen and Greg Joder. Since 2013, Tom has been instrumental as both a Tuesday and Friday docent. His generosity contributes greatly to guests' enjoyment. Greg has been a volunteer with the Interpretive Animal Collection for more than a year. His background in wildlife research has contributed to his eye for detail along with his strong work ethic. We could not do what we do without them. Thank you for being such a great addition to the family!  Volunteer Today!

What's Going Down in the Desert? 
  • Art & Conservation Symposium (December 8)
  • Mineral Madness (January 14) 
  • Beat Back Buffelgrass Day (January 21) 
Want more info on these awesome events? Check it Out!
 
December 2, 2016