Please note: Certain areas of the Museum (including Ironwood Terraces Restaurant) will be closed this weekend due to set up for our annual Gala.
Photo: ASDM/Kat Rumbley
Agave Heritage Festival
Do you know how tequila is made? Have you seen our new Agave Garden? If the answer is no, join us during the first weekend in May (Friday-Sunday)! The Desert Museum is participating in the Agave Heritage Festival, which explores and celebrates the cultural, commercial, and culinary significance of the agave plant. We will have activities for everyone! You can take an informative tour through our Agave Garden and even buy rare and collectible agaves in our Desert Garden. Addicted to Agaves!
March For Science
Show your support for science! Join us this Saturday at Tucson's first #MarchforScience at El Presidio Park. The Desert Museum is participating because science protects our environment, water, wildlife, and also improves our health, education, and curiosity. Two of our spirited scientists, Catherine Bartlett and Sergio Avila, will be speaking (at 11:45 a.m.) about why science matters to them and its importance for the future. Make sure to stop by our booth to chat with us about science. March On!
Photo: Zach West
Are You Right About Rattlesnakes?
When people typically hear the word desert, they think of cactus, heat, and rattlesnakes. You may have noticed that springtime has brought out the snakes. The warm daytime temperatures and cool evenings create ideal conditions for them. Sadly, these desert dwellers come with a stigma (that they are aggressive). Like all wildlife they must be respected, but these slithering species are not "out to get you." They would much rather find food, shelter, and a mate. Read More About Rattlers!
Photo: ASDM/Liz Kemp
Prairie Dog Pups Popped Up!
Springtime at the Desert Museum means many things: beautiful blooms, perfect weather, and baby prairie dogs! We have counted six baby black-tailed prairie dogs that have emerged from their underground den to scatter in the sunshine. When the babies are born, they're blind and hairless which is why they remain underground for around 40-50 days. We estimate that these bouncing babes are six to seven weeks old. We hope you come visit with the newborns this weekend.
Play with Prairie Dogs!
Photo: Jay Pierstorff
Flower Friday
Our strong and sturdy saguaro cacti (Carnegiea gigantea) are bursting with blooms at the Desert Museum! These blooms only last for about 24 hours. They open at night and remain open throughout the next day. These white wonders are a principal pollinator pad for bats (during the night) and bees and birds (during the day). After the flowers have been properly pollinated, they mature into bright, red fruit. Come stand among the saguaros with us and watch these beauties open. Dig Deeper!
Kristin Wisneski-Blum & Maggie Fusari
Volunteer Viernes
We would like to congratulate our volunteers of the month, Kristin Wisneski-Blum and Maggie Fusari. Kristin has been volunteering with the Museum for 8 months. In that short time, she has tremendously contributed to the recruitment of Aquatic Interpreter volunteers. Maggie has volunteered as a docent for more than 6 years. Her knowledge and passion for the Sonoran Desert shines when interacting with guests, especially children. 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 Institute Annual Exhibition and Opening Reception (April 29)
Agave Heritage Festival (May 5-7)
Coati Kids Club Members Meeting (May 6)
Want more info on these awesome events?
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