The End of the Season

It's getting to the end of the saguaro flower season. Although the flowers are still blooming on this plant, others already have fruit. The green saguaro fruit bursts open to reveal a bright red interior. Fortunately for the plant, the birds and the animals, the fruit tastes wonderful. It's unfortunate for photographers, though, because hungry beaks usually get to the fruit long before curious lenses.

By tradition, the local Native Americans collect the fruit using long poles. I've seen people doing this even in the National Park. Having once tasted a fruit, I can understand why — they are truly delicious.