Nature Adventures

ARIZONA WILDLIFE SAFARI

Arizona is a world-class wildlife viewing destination.  From diverse deserts to alpine tundra, we boast a truly astonishing variety of natural environments that harbor an equally impressive array of animals.  Many of the wildlife species encountered, particularly in the southeastern corner of the state, are found in few or no other part of the U.S.  Here is your chance to experience first-hand Roadrunners, Collared Peccaries, Coyotes, a variety of Hawks and Owls, White-tailed and Mule Deer, Gila Monsters, several species of Rattlesnake, Tarantulas, and a stunning diversity of Invertebrates.  We will search for tracks and signs of many species, including Mountain Lions, Bobcats, Ringtails, Coatis and more.  Finally, we will attempt to call in some species using vocal imitations and several other natural calling devices.

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Birdwatching

Southeast Arizona contains an incredible and fascinating diversity of bird species.  Drawing species from the Sierra Madre region of Mexico, as well as from the Rocky Mountains, Chihuahuan Desert, and the Sonoran Desert our Sky Islands will always deliver a great bird-watching experience. We concentrate our efforts in order to maximize the overall number of species you may encounter, but do so in a fashion that maximizes intimate and memorable bird experiences.  We also go on otherworldly “Owl Prowls”, searching for some of our area’s night denizens. No prior bird-watching experience is needed.  Join us as we roam the deserts, grasslands, and forests in search of these winged wonders!

Raven's-Nest Bird List (downloadable PDF)

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NATURE RETREATS

If you are seeking the solitude and bliss of Nature, but would like some guidance and insight, then we have a few places for you!  Both RAVEN’S NEST and RAVEN’S MOUNTAIN (please see the description under “RAVENS-WAY LOCATIONS”) hold incredible promise for a memorable time spent communing with the Natural World.  We can act strictly as back-up or you may decide to use our Naturalist talents to enhance your experience.  Either way you will soon find yourself discovering treasure not only in Nature, but also within yourself!  We’ll work with you to come up with the perfect retreat aimed at rejuvenating your soul.

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ETHNOBOTANY

Ethnobotany - the study of people use plants - is a vital foundation for becoming a well-rounded Naturalist.  You may well decide to explore the plant world in this catch-all class that covers the many uses that humans have for Wild Plants. You will locate, identify, and use a wide variety of Plants for food, medicine, shelter, tools, art, and more.  Several Stone-age take-home crafts will serve as a reminder of your new incredible wealth of plant wisdom.

Raven's-Nest Plant List (downloadable PDF)

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THORNS, STINGERS, & FANGS

Black Widows, Rattlesnakes, Poison Ivy, spiny Cacti, Centipedes, Kissing bugs, Africanized Bees, Ants, Gila Monsters, Scorpions and more - welcome to the Southwest!  How in the world can we enjoy the wilds with these daunting species as neighbors?  In this class you learn to tell the difference between truly dangerous animals and plants versus those that we unjustly fear.  Further, we’ll delve deeply into the identification, natural history, and first aid involved with each fascinating species covered.  Not only will you increase your knowledge and safety with each species, you may also discover that you’ve made a few unconventional friends along the way - just give them a wide berth at times!

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THE ART & SCIENCE OF TRACKING

It has been said that observing Nature while ignoring tracks and signs is akin to only gazing at the covers of books in a library.  You’ll soon discover this truth for yourself as we delve into the language of the land written by the passage of a diversity of wild creatures.  As with sensory awareness, tracking is a vital skill that lends it knowledge to many other outdoor pursuits.  Using science, the art of interpretation, journaling, and various tracking exercises you’ll soon be solving some of the many natural mysteries that we daily encounter.  Gazing at the many mysteries that lie before you, you’ll soon discover new insights into Nature and yourself!

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AMAZING ARIZONA ASTRONOMY

The night skies of Southeastern AZ include some of the best celestial viewing sites in North America.  Year-round you can explore the mystery of the night skies, including a constellation tour, planetary views, and a multitude of deep sky objects.  With the aid of cutting edge technology as well as the ancient sky stories you’ll rediscover the joy of gazing at the night sky.  [note: this class can be combined with a dusk Wildlife Safari if you desire]

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CORPORATE TEAM-BUILDING

Using a variety of survival and stone-age challenges we will provide a unique forum within which your company can grow as a team. Stripped of your normal surroundings and cast into the beautiful, but unforgiving realm of Nature your employees will soon learn the value of each other. New bonds , friendships, skills, and respect will emerge as everyone learns how to solve complex problems while enjoying the sublime beauty of the Earth.

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NATURE TREKS

Here is your opportunity to truly wander the Wilds, allowing your interests and our expertise to guide you.  We will work with you to carefully craft an Adventure that incorporates your interests, seasonal attractions, and the level of difficulty that you are comfortable with.  You can take a Nature trek in any of the environments within the Southwest - Desert, Grassland, Chaparral, Woodland, or Forest.  Along the way you can look for unique Wildlife, scale a majestic peak, cool off under a breathtaking waterfall, take in an unforgettable sunset, or simply kick back and relax!

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INSECT & INVERTEBRATE SAFARI

Although most people readily picture any number of large mammals, birds, and reptiles as worthy things to see while on a safari, you are much more likely to encounter a vast array of spectacular insects and other invertebrates during your southwestern travels.  In fact, the Sky Islands region is renowned for its invertebrate (i.e. animals without internal skeletons) diversity, including many species normally associated with Mexico.  Come and see for yourself how rewarding it can be to stalk a beautiful butterfly, to follow the fantastical aerial gyrations of a dragonfly, to learn about a myriad of ants species, or to explore the world of a tarantula.  These and other treasures await your curiosity and reflection.  This adventure is not only fun, but may well help you to overcome any fears you may have associated with this lilliputian world.