August 10, 2022 - Did you know that invertebrates make up over ninety percent of all animals species on the planet? These organisms are the unsung heroes of their ecosystems and are often overshadowed by more familiar and obvious creatures, such as birds and mammals. A one-mile stretch of the Santa Cruz River is protected within the boundaries of Tumacácori National Historical Park. The cottonwoodwillow riparian forest and adjacent mesquite bosque support a large diversity of invertebrates, ranging from myriapods (centipedes/millipedes) to arachnids (spiders), to insects, and more!

Join two park rangers, both invertebrate experts, for a fun-filled expedition into the incredible world of invertebrates. Meet the rangers at the Juan Bautista de Anza trailhead, located directly across from the Tumacácori Post Office, on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 8:00 p.m. Be prepared for an approximately two mile round-trip walk, as well as extended periods of standing and observing invertebrates. There is no charge for the walk, however, please make a reservation by calling the visitor center at 520-377-5061 as space is limited. Wear good walking shoes, bring a flashlight with a red filter, and a water bottle. Be aware that trail conditions may be slick and muddy. 

 

About the National Park Service – More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 424 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.

 

###