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Bandelier National Monument
August
young Abert's squirrel

photo by sally king

In August young animals are often ready to join their parents and may be seen in the park.

THE NORM
August weather is marked by beautiful sunny mornings and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. These storms are isolated in nature and may drop large volumes of rain in some areas. They are frequently accompanied by dangerous lightning. The likelihood of afternoon thunderstorms should be taken into account when planning daily activities. Young animals are often mature enough to join parents in feeding activities and may be seen in the park. These include mule deer fawns and many fledgling birds. Evening programs are given every Friday and Saturday night at Juniper Campground. Nightwalks are offered one night each week. Park visitation may be heavy and a wait for parking could be required.
 
Hatchling Great Plains Skink

photos by sally king

Young animals, such as this hatchling Great Plains skink, are common in August.

AUGUST 2009
August weather has started with the typical threat of afternoon thunderstorms on most days. Days start warm but rapidly cool with the coming of the afternoon thunderstorms.  Visitation has been steady but not busy. There have been no waits for parking. Evening programs will be given each Friday and Saturday night, through August 15th, at the amphitheater at Juniper Campground. The final Nightwalks of this summer will be given the evenings of August 5th and 12th..  Butterflies and wildflowers are plentiful. Young animals such as black-headed turkey vultures and fledgling Cooper's Hawks are making an appearance in Frijoles Canyon.
 
Showy 4 oclock, Rocky Mnt Beeplant, Mariposa Lily
photos by sally king
Numerous wildflowers are blooming at all elevations of the park with the coming of the mid summer rains.
Tyuonyi Pueblo  

Did You Know?
It is estimated that Tyuonyi Pueblo had 400 rooms but only 100 people lived there. Many of the rooms were used mostly for storage of food and pens for turkeys.

Last Updated: August 02, 2009 at 10:57 EST