Strange & Legendary Creatures of Arizona      

In ancient Greek folklore, the Phoenix was a spectacular bird that regenerated itself by bursting into flame, then rising from the ashes. Our capital city emulates this concept of regeneration by rising from the barren desert floor to grow and flourish. Today, Arizona is home to creatures that are every bit as unique as that magical bird of yore. From the low cactus studded flats of the Sonoran Desert, to the highest alpine peaks, the diversity of Arizona wildlife is remarkable. Arizona ranks third in the nation for wildlife with more than 800 species of native birds, reptiles, mammals and thousands of species of insects. Legendary creatures also prowl the hidden places in our state. Over the past 100 years, the seven-feet-tall Mogollon Monster has been spotted in the dense forests of northern Arizona. The Tombstone Thunderbird was well documented – and then vanished!  Our state is also home to some of the most bizarre arachnids in nature. Vinegarroon and Solpugid are harmless monstrosities that eat the insects we hate! We also have  secretive and dangerous creatures like the black widow spider and bark scorpion that remind us not to put our fingers in places they don’t belong! This is an outstanding presentation that will introduce you to the natural diversity of this unique state. Presentation time:  1 hour (Slide Presentation)