Water Birds in the Desert

When you live in an arid state like Arizona, you're quick to appreciate water as the precious commodity it is. I'm awestruck by the life that thrives outside the urban areas, in the desert, far away from the rivers, canals and reservoirs that quench the thirst of the millions of people that call this state home. Many of our native birds that populate the dry countryside, like the cactus wrens, ash-throated flycatchers and Gambel's quails, seem to rely on the plants and animals they eat for most of their water needs.

But there are many birds exactly like us, dependent on a regular supply of water for both thirst and food. I imagine these fowl have lived along waterways like the Colorado, Verde, Salt and Gila Rivers - that historically have run year-round with ample supplies of water - for millennium. Images of herons even appear in ancient peoples' petroglyphs, etched on rocky surfaces. But with urban development - not to mention agriculture - water birds have expanded their domain along the many canals, reservoirs and man-made lakes that today dot our city parks and communities. As a result, more and more winter visitors like many marsh ducks have found a wider variety of accommodations. And a few seem to have even adapted to the good life, residing here year round.

Enjoy these pictures of various water birds that call Phoenix home for at least part of the year. They're some of my favorite shots. The play of light on water with such beautiful subjects is always fun to capture.