advertisement
30 May 2022
Sitting in my office in Chandler, Arizona, in an area commonly called Ocotillo, I can sometimes glimpse the most unlikely bird I ever thought I would see. Enjoying the outdoors of Arizona and bathing in the water in the artificial pond by my office are Rosy-faced lovebirds.
advertisement
At first, I thought the birds were lost pets, which had me alarmed as a former bird owner (I used to have a pet parakeet as a kid — lived a long and full life to the age of 12). Worrying about the potential pet owners missing their birds, I dove into researching these beautiful tropical birds living their best life in Arizona.
The improbable Rosy-faced lovebird has been spreading for years throughout the Phoenix valley. It’s improbable because Arizona is the only place you’ll find them in the wild outside of their native home in Africa.
The Peach-faced Lovebird is a small parrot native to Namibia, Africa, that is popular as a caged pet bird. Like many caged birds, accidental releases in urban areas occur. However, unlike most unintentional releases, this parrot has adapted to desert habitats in Arizona rapidly.
Typically, released parrots are entirely dependent on food and water from people. Nevertheless, the Peach-faced Lovebird has managed to flourish in Arizona and continue eating, breeding, and thriving. Research suggests this is because they come from a similarly dry area in Africa and live in palm trees identical to the kind of trees they inhabit in Africa.
advertisement
Colonies most likely started by an unintentional Love Bird release from an aviary in Apache Junction in 1987 that got hit by a monsoon microburst. It destroyed the aviary and turned at least 100 love birds loose.
Sometimes these Rosey-faced cuties are mistaken for escaped pets or parakeets because of their tropical look (as I did). But, of course, these parrots would die in the wild just about anywhere else. Still, as stated earlier, it happened to be a happy accident that Phoenix is almost identical to their native Namibia.
They are all over Scottsdale, Central Phoenix, Ahwatukee, and Chandler. Technically, they are an invasive species, but they don’t seem to be killing off or affecting any of the native birds. So if you live in these areas and want to catch a sneak peek of these beautiful birds, try setting out a bowl of their favorite treat: sunflower seeds!
advertisement
Arizona summers can make outdoor play feel impossible, especially in the middle of the day. The good news is there are plenty of affordable, family-friendly options that keep kids cool, active, and entertained without turning it into a big-ticket outing. Below are budget-friendly ideas across the Valley, including museums, indoor play spots with strong reviews, and free or low-cost options for early mornings and evenings. advertisement 1) Affordable Indoor Museums (Air-Conditioned and Worth It) Idea Museum (Mesa) If you have younger kids who love hands-on play, art, and creative exploration, the Idea Museum is a solid summer option. It is
Arizona is known for the Grand Canyon, cactus-filled deserts, and dramatic sunsets. But beyond the obvious, the Grand Canyon State is packed with surprising history, natural oddities, and quirky records. Here are some fun Arizona facts that might just impress your friends at your next trivia night. advertisement 1. Arizona Does Not Observe Daylight Saving Time Most of Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, which means the state stays on Mountain Standard Time all year long. The exception is the Navajo Nation, which does observe Daylight Saving Time. So you can cross into a different time zone just by
Arizona is famous for desert landscapes and natural wonders, but the state’s museums tell stories just as powerful. From ancient Indigenous cultures and Western history to modern art and musical legends, Arizona museums offer something for every kind of curiosity. Whether you live here or are planning a visit, these are ten standout museums that showcase the depth, creativity, and history of the Grand Canyon State. advertisement 1. Heard Museum Phoenix The Heard Museum is one of the most respected Native American museums in the country. Its exhibits focus on Indigenous art, culture, and history, with a strong emphasis on
When most people think of Arizona, they picture deserts, saguaros, and red rock cliffs. Fishing is not usually the first thing that comes to mind. But Arizona quietly offers some of the most diverse and underrated fishing in the Southwest, with everything from mountain trout streams to desert reservoirs full of bass and catfish. Whether you are a weekend angler or just looking for a new outdoor hobby, Arizona has water, fish, and year-round opportunities. advertisement What You Can Catch in Arizona Arizona’s variety of elevations creates a wide range of fishing options. In the high country, cooler waters support
