Every now and then I like to recall some of the things that I have experienced since moving to the desert from the big city. I call them Adventures in Paradise. You will see a few of these articles here in my blog.
My favorite stories center around my introduction to Arizona's indigenous creators, primarily snakes. Like most people, I really don’t like snakes, but they are here so I must deal with them.
The area I live in is still somewhat rural so we see a lot of wildlife. This story is one from the first few weeks after moving into my new home.
I was working out in the courtyard installing a watering system for the landscaping that I was planting. I was digging with a shovel and a pick because the ground here is very hard.
I couldn’t help but have this feeling that something else with me in the courtyard. As I looked around all I could see was a little bunny lounging on the other side of the courtyard. But then I noticed something else. A long red snake. These snakes which are common here, sometimes called red racers, are non-venomous. I decided to keep an eye on it as it wasn’t bothering anything.
At this point, I wish I had a camera because suddenly out of the corner of my eye I saw movement and heard a screeching sound. I looked and the snake had the little bunny in its mouth. I had never heard a bunny screech or make any sound before. Then even more surprisingly out of nowhere came the mother rabbit and began to attack the snake. The snake trying to defend itself let go of the bunny and both rabbits took off out of the courtyard. I stood there in shock at what had just happened.
I decided that was enough and using a garden hose chased the snake out of the courtyard as well. I followed it to see where it was going. Since I have over an acre of property there is plenty of room for wildlife. I watched the snake approach a small dirt mound that was near the edge of my property. The snake paused for a minute then suddenly dove into a small hole at the base of the mound. Within seconds a dozen or more pack rats came scurrying out of the mound. The snake didn't get to feast on rabbit this day but probably ate rat instead.
It was for me an incredible introduction to Arizona’s fauna. That was more than 15 years ago but I remember it like it was yesterday. Since then, I have adapted to my environment and are seldom shocked by some of the things I see or hear about. Even though some might find it creepy, it has been a chance to learn a little more about the world we live in.
Joe Domino is a Realtor® serving the Phoenix & Scottsdale metro area. You can follow Joe's real estate blog at From The Outside Looking In or find more great information by visiting his website at www.Scottsdale-AZHomes.com.
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