The Big Loop, Day 9: Zoo, etc. (26 images)

On day 9, I visited the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park in Carlsbad. It features a large visitor/education center and a lot of outdoor exhibits. The weather was just right for walking through the garden exhibits (though I would NOT want to be there in the middle of summer!).

Two observations: First, while some native flowers had begun to bloom, I'm sure another few weeks would produce a much more colorful display. Second, I was impressed how the animals in the region have adapted their own colors to that of the surrounding area. Lots of shades of tan and brown!

Prickly Pear Cactus

Burrowing Owl

Golden Eagle

White-winged Dove (a life-lister)

Mourning Dove

Greater Roadrunner (a big ol' fat one!)

Greater Roadrunner

Ferruginous Hawk

White-crowned Sparrow

Javalina

Ground Squirrel

Bald Eagle

Elk

Javalina

Prairie Dog

Jackrabbit