Waterfowl and Wading Birds at Whitewater Draw, January 2026 – Image by kenne
Another season, another return. The birds arrive, faithful as gravity. If they ever stop coming, don’t ask the birds why— ask the men who drained the water.
Sandhill Cranes at Whitewater Draw — Image by kenne
“It’s something about this final point—the fact they’re so ancient—that brings me perspective and stillness. In a universe thought to be 14 billion years old, and with a bird that has been around so very long, watching them inspires me to keep my short life in perspective, helps me clarify the course I want to take, what my landing spots might be, how best to use my wild and precious life (to quote another poet, Mary Oliver).”
Sandhill Cranes Over Whitewater Draw — Image by kenne
After leaving at sunrise to feed in the nearby fields hundreds of cranes return at mid-day, squawking in a cacophony heard miles around.
It’s sunny with a few passing clouds drifting overhead in the distance mountains rise above the farm and ranch lands.
These big birds prefer the shallow waters of the draw where they stand protected from predators who prefer to stay out of the water.
Geese, ducks and other waterfowl can be found wintering here in southeast Arizona attracting birders with scopes and cameras.
I don’t see myself as a birder, birders are strange counting and taking notes to be placed on eBird, me, I just take photos.
Occasionally we make small talk going through our social necessities thinking about it or not thinking about it walking freely on by not holding to the moment so as not to remember.
