The Lush Desert

The Sonoran Desert is the wettest desert in the world, which means it's incredibly green and full of life. It is the only place in the world where the Saguaro cactus grows naturally.

Notable Plants

Saguaro Cactus

The giant symbol of the West. They can live 200 years and grow over 40 feet tall. They don't grow their first arm until they are ~75 years old!

Ocotillo

Looks like a bunch of dead sticks most of the year, but after rain, it bursts with green leaves and bright orange flowers at the tips.

Palo Verde

Arizona's state tree. Its name means "Green Stick" in Spanish because its bark is green to photosynthesize even when it drops its leaves.

Notable Animals

Javelina

They look like wild pigs, but they are actually collared peccaries. They live in herds and are often seen in neighborhoods near the desert.

Roadrunner

Yes, they are real! They can run 20 mph and eat snakes and lizards. You'll often see them darting across trails.

Gila Monster

One of only two venomous lizards in the world. They are heavy, slow, and have beautiful orange and black bead-like skin.

Coyote

Clever and adaptable, they are common throughout Tucson. You might hear their yips and howls at night.

Where to See Them

The best place to guarantee seeing these animals is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. For wild plants and landscapes, visit Saguaro National Park.