In a state where desert arroyos, washes, and many streambeds remain bone-dry most of the time, the year-round flow of Cienega Creek makes it a highly valuable resource. A lush green ribbon of vegetation defines one of the most significant riparian zones in southern Arizona. Cienega Creek gets its name from the cienegas, or marshes, which occur along its length. This rare vegetation community has nearly disappeared in the Southwest. (from Government Website)
NCA = National Conservation Area. Truth be told, I didn't see the Creek - it was further north than my route. There was some green, but I would call it more typical South West scrub and I even got hit by a tumbleweed on route - how iconic!
It was a lovely drive and I had some nice bird moments.
Horned Lark
Lark Sparrow
Black-throated Sparrow
Ash-throated Flycatcher
Cassin's Kingbird
Swainson's Hawk
White prickly poppy
There was also a Prairie Dog Colony -- not great photos -- they were not close and back-lit, but I couldn't skip them.
More time could have been spent here, but I was basically just passing through. It was already turning to the heat of day when I arrived. If I had realized it was named for the creek in the north, I might have made a detour. All from the car!
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