The contrast is sublime. Biological diversity abounds here. Insects buzz into flowers busily collecting nectar and pollen. Flycatchers, gnatcatchers, warblers, and shrikes flit busily after their hapless prey. Lizards scamper and dart out of harm's way.
Plant communities thrive here as well.
These emerald pathways are a magnet for desert life. This photo was taken in a canyon on San Marcos Island. Palo blanco trees line its sides. Their blossoms filled the air with a spicy fragrance that drifted out from creamy white, ball-like clusters of small flowers. This wash did its share of beckoning.