Grandfathers of the Sonora Desert

Posted byLisa at Micro of the MacroPosted inBeauty of Nature, TravelTags:, ,

We recently vacationed in southern Arizona.  The weather was warm and dry, and we enjoyed hiking, biking, and riding horses through the desert.  Saguaro cactus plants were plentiful and huge.  Visiting Saguaro National Park, we saw some that towered over us.

I’ve learned a lot about the growth of saguaros.  I was surprised to find that they grow only 1 – 1.5 inches total during their first 8 years.  At about age 35, white flowers may appear on the plant, and continue throughout their lifetime.  Just before the white blooms close, green buds may emerge that eventually turn red and reveal sweet red fruit, to the delight of desert animals and humans alike.  Branches, or arms, form once the cactus has reached 50 – 100 years of age, depending on precipitation in the area.  Adult saguaros, those that are 125 years or older, can reach heights of 50 feet and weigh more than 6 tons.  Their average lifespan is 150 – 175 years, although it is believed some live over 200 years.

Small holes in saguaros at the Riparian Preserve are entryways to bird nests

I first witnessed birds nesting inside saguaros at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, AZ, with my friend Janet from This, That, and the Other Thing.  I’ve read that these nests are actually created by gila woodpeckers and gilded flickers, who eventually abandon them.  Other winged creatures, such as elf owls, house finches, and purple martins, are happy to take them over.

According to Wikipedia, the saguaro provides voluminous amounts of pollen, nectar, and fruits. Its fruits are eaten by ants and white-winged doves.  These doves are important pollinators, visiting blooms more often than any other bird species. For white-winged doves making their homes in or near the desert, 60% or more of their diet is saguaro-based, and the blooming of the saguaros coincides with their breeding cycle.

For ages, every part of the saguaro, living or dead, has been used by Native Americans.  The fruits are carefully harvested and made into wine, jams, and syrup.  Seeds are eaten raw, ground into meal, pressed for oils, or used for chicken feed.  Once the plant dies, its ribs are used for building furniture or fences.  Even the old bird nests found inside are used as storage vessels.

The declining status of the saguaro cactus has resulted in protection initiatives.  On federal lands, it is now illegal to harm or remove them, and in other areas, a permit is needed to relocate them.  Additional requirements have been established in various municipalities.  Even when a saguaro dies, a permit is necessary to remove its dried ribs.

These desert grandfathers sparked joy and reverence in our hearts.  Saguaro National Park is a treasure that shouldn’t be missed when you’re near the Tucson, Arizona area.

Blessings for a Long, Productive Life,

Lisa

The content of this article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified health care professional before acting on any information presented herein. Any statements about the possible health benefits of any subject discussed have not been evaluated by medical professionals or the Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.

68 thoughts on “Grandfathers of the Sonora Desert”

  2. Love your post of the desert and these amazing shots you got of the saguaro cactus. Fun facts and its such a place of beauty where I soak up their gifts. Glad their is an initiative out for them. Long live the Saguaro Catus! Hugs and love!❣️

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      1. Awww thanks Lisa. I so appreciate that and i wish you the same. Big hugs and lots of love. I did love your post and all you put into your sharing bringing us along. Big hugs and more love for a great new year!!!!!❤️❤️

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  5. Wow! I learned so much reading this… Your pictures are amazing and the details about the Saguaro Cactus are fascinating. I am glad that they are protected. Thank you for sharing this beautiful corner of the world with us!!!

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  16. Pingback: Grandfathers of the Sonora Desert – Me and my life 😍🙏😊(ये मेरी ज़िन्दगी हैं)

  17. Imagine my surprise to see my name! ❤️. That was a good day but too long ago. I think it’s my turn to visit. Saguaro is such a wonderful place although I just read about the bobcat with rabies. Now might not be the best time to visit. But I’m glad you were able to enjoy the beauty.

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    1. Hi, Janet, I wasn’t sure if the link I used from your site would show in your reader. But I’m glad you popped by! That was a great day at the preserve. I’d love for you to pay me another visit. I’m sorry to say we’re not getting much snow so far this season. More rain than anything. I’m grateful, but it’s not the same as snow, for those of us who love the white stuff! Wishing you & hubby a new year filled with beauty! ☀️

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  19. How timely, we just recently left that area. Also our first time seeing these incredible cacti – best of all they are a magnet for the Gila Woodpecker and the Gilden Flicker – both lifers for me and both exactly where they said they would be … on top of those cacti ha. We had a lot of fun in the Benson, Tucson, Phoenix area before heading up to Vegas – almost back home now …heavy coats and gloves already out.

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  26. These snippets of information are wonderful and enlightening! I knew very VERY little of these plants before reading this post of yours. So much that we can learn we take the time to look, to be curious and ask questions, and listen to those who have knowledge.

    Thank you for sharing. 🧡

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