Gallery: The Intricate Textures of the Desert

Photographer's note: In this gallery I wanted to showcase the uniqueness of nature and it's importance to the world. We take a lot of wildlife around us for granted and I wanted to hone in on that wildlife and appreciate the fact that we live on such a beautiful planet.

Whispers of a Canopy

Nature can protect and envelop flora and fauna alike. This photo showcases a canopy of leaves, protecting a small river from the sun so frogs and minnows can peacefully dwell in the cool waters.

A Foxglove Fairytale

These flowers showcase nature’s beauty, but also deadliness. Though it may not look like it, foxglove is highly toxic to many humans and animals. This flower is the perfect example of “look but don’t touch.”

A Skeleton of the Sands

Cholla are often overlooked plants in the desert, although they are extremely interesting cacti. They are one of the main food sources for many desert animals, and produce fruit that humans can consume. They also bloom with flowers in the springtime.

Spiked Elegance

The foreboding spikes warn potential consumers of this plant to mind their own business. This plant has evolved to have a natural layer of protection, enabling it to live for over 100 years.

Nature’s Fibonacci

The fibonacci sequence is something that has fascinated many people over the years. It is a mathematical sequence in which each number is the sum of the two preceding ones, however it often occurs in nature in petals or branches, or, in this case, aloe leaves.

Red Ribbons

This petunia has a split personality between red and white. White symbolizes purity and innocence, whereas red symbolizes energy and passion. This flower shows a perfect blend of contrasting ideals.

Inky Sky Dancer

A phainopepla is a common bird to find in the desert, one of its identifying characteristics being the spiky mohawk at the crest of its head. Their name is derived from Greek, meaning “shining robe,” a fitting description for this glossy bird.

Blush of Mesquite Leaves

Mesquite trees have small delicate leaves that contrast the big stocky trunks and roots. The roots can stretch up to 200 feet to find water to supply for the large tree. In addition to leaves, they also have spikes to protect from predators.

Scarlet Ember

This flower has Hawaiin heritage and is a very important part of Hawaiin culture. It is used for medicinal purposes, such as easing the pains of childbirth. It was a well rounded plant, providing food for native Hawaiin birds as well as uses of the wood for building.

Clustered Cacti

These cacti may be small, but they are mighty. Their spines are extremely sharp and plentiful. They often bloom in springtime, full of pink and red flowers. Their fruit is often food for many desert animals.

Golden Sunburst

Cape marigolds are vibrant flowers that grow in clusters. They are commonly referred to as “African daisies.” The petals of these colorful flowers are often used to garnish salads and top off meals with a slightly bitter and citrusy flavor.

Dancing with Pollen

This photo not only showcases a fairy duster, but also a honey bee collecting nectar during springtime. This plant is an excellent source of nectar for all sorts of pollinating insects such as swallowtail and sulphur butterflies.

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About the photographer, Alexa Sommers:

Alexa Sommers is a high school student who enjoys reading, writing, and socializing. Some of her hobbies include playing water polo and photography. She got into photography after realizing she needed a safe space to relax. She began taking walks around her neighborhood and eventually branched to trails and other streets. She wants to show the versatility and beauty of nature in all of her photos.