advertisement
14 November 2022
Arizona sees an influx of visitors every winter hoping to enjoy the weather. Including feathered fowl such as Canada geese. As a result of urbanization, more Canada Geese are stopping in Arizona on their migration routes.
Canada geese are known across North America for their black and white heads and V-shaped migrating formations. These birds thrive in urban habitats, and humans help them by building artificial bodies of water.
advertisement
Like human snowbirds, geese flock to Arizona in the winter to stay warm. Nevertheless, some snowbirds have made a permanent home here, and most of the geese you see in the Valley are from up north. The graceful land and water creatures may seem like a beautiful addition to Arizona’s fauna, but they’ve become a nuisance.
Residents find these geese to be quite a problem, despite their beauty. Besides creating a big mess with their droppings and damaging turf, they can also be scary and territorial (especially if they have eggs around)! Geese will bite you if they feel threatened or if you get too close to their nests. Geese bites aren’t usually dangerous to humans but can cause bruising, bleeding, and infections.
As the number of artificial lakes and landscaping grows, more geese stop in Arizona instead of going further south to Mexico. Not only do they take advantage of the lakes, but they also feed on the nice Bermuda grass that’s usually next to them.
Some permanent resident geese came from a flock brought to Turf Paradise racetrack lake in the 1970s. They thought geese would be lovely in their infield lake. However, even then, there were efforts to address their population since the numbers were growing at an alarming rate.
advertisement
Over the past decade, volunteers across the Valley have been surveying the winter waterfowl population, which includes these Canadian geese. The Arizona Game and Fish Department coordinates and compiles data sent in by volunteers for the Greater Phoenix Waterbird Area Survey. In the Phoenix area, 5,517 Canadian geese were counted during the 2019 January survey. The number is up from 3,509 surveyed a decade ago.
advertisement
Research indicates that the likelihood of being diagnosed with dementia can be influenced by where individuals live. Insights from Researchers Dr. Julie Bynum, the lead researcher from the University of Michigan, stated that “the percentage of individuals over 65 diagnosed in Arizona is low compared to the national average.” She has dedicated years to examining the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia across the United States. Bynum further noted that “regardless of demographic factors such as race or age, where one lives plays a crucial role in their likelihood of receiving a diagnosis.” advertisement Contrasts in Diagnosis
The historic Highline Trail in the picturesque White Mountains of Arizona is undergoing colossal rehabilitation, potentially transforming Payson into a prominent bikepacking destination. This revitalization project aims to enhance accessibility and promote outdoor recreation while preserving the area’s natural beauty. The Trail’s History The Highline Trail has a rich history dating to its establishment in 1870. Initially utilized for travel between homesteads and livestock movement, it has witnessed significant changes. Today, it spans approximately 55 miles of non-motorized singletrack. However, many sections have fallen into disrepair due to erosion and neglect. In 2021, plans to rehabilitate and reroute parts of
Pacheta Falls, hidden in the beautiful White Mountains of Northeastern Arizona, is a hidden gem for adventurous souls seeking the beauty of nature away from the usual tourist crowds. Unlike the more popular waterfalls in the region, such as Havasu Falls or Cibecue Falls, Pacheta Falls is much harder to get to and thus has a more untouched beauty. advertisement Location and Access Pacheta Falls is located on the White Mountain Apache Tribal land and is known for its stunning landscape and serene environment. However, accessing this remote waterfall is no simple task. The journey begins with a drive that
Arizona Wildlife Experts Advise Against Using Real Pumpkins as Decor As Halloween approaches, Arizona wildlife officials urge residents to reconsider their outdoor decorations. They warn that festive pumpkins and gourds could attract more than just admiring neighbors. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) reminds the public that Halloween pumpkins and fall decorations can lure wildlife into residential areas. This can potentially create dangerous situations for humans and animals. AZGFD Public Information Officer stated, “They don’t want to be the Grinch that stole Halloween, but they want to avoid nightmare scenarios.” Recent wildlife sightings, including a bear spotted in the
