Arizona Trails and Tales with Rich Fuhrmann

In episode 61 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich begins by sharing some cautionary warnings about hydration, heat and the importance of sunscreen. Allergy season is starting early this year in the Sonoran Desert, and he cautions about certain locations. Bees swarms and venomous creatures are being seen around trails and listeners are urged to use caution. This episode explores a recent all day birding trip to Hassayampa River Preserve, a  trip to the S'edav Va'aki Museum and some reflections on both. Rich encourages listeners to create an urban or desert scavenger hunt to still be outside and entertain children or guests in the morning to escape the extreme heat while still having fun in nature. The tales portion closes with efforts being made to preserve the Va'aki archeological sight.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 60 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich highlights some key features and changes in the Sonoran Desert this time of year. Spring Training fans and Spring Breakers are welcomed and given a few reminders on the importance of hydration and sunscreen. The episode explores a few fauna and flora species that are more commonly seen when on trails this time of year. The tales portion highlights an Arizona born a raised adventurer, Alison Levine, also in honor of Women's History month.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 59 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich focuses on the Desert Botanical Garden and the Hole in the Rock Trail found in Papago Park. This episode features a review of a recent school field trip to the White Tanks, birding on Friday at the Tres Rios Wetlands, The Tres Rios Festival held at the Base and Meridian Wildlife Area on Sunday and a Saturday trip to the Desert Botanical Gardens. The tales portion shares the story of how Papago Park became the first decommissioned park.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In Episode 58 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich Highlights the North Mountain Preserve and its connection to the former Indian School. This episode features some history of the park, a few recommended trails, highlights the visitor center and shares the connection to the Indian School and using the park as a campground.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 57 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich shares some pointers from the first two days of the Great Backyard Bird Count. This podcast provides some basic tips for when and where to find birds and other strategies for targeting a specific bird. The tales portion closes with a brief Happy Birthday to Arizona on Valentine's Day.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 56 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses and encourages participation in the Great Backyard Bird Count from February 13-16, 2026. Rich shares some resources including tools, apps and techniques so that anyone can participate. The tales portion highlights one of his favorite writers Edward Abbey.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 55 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich describes the history, features, DragonFly Trail and the importance of Jewel of the Creek Preserve as an important bird area (IBA) The tales portion features Rich's quest to finally spot the elusive Blackburnian Warbler and what has inspired this trip to the Preserve. Did he finally get this lifer?

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 54 of Arizona Trails and Tales I feature a recent birding location scouting trip to Lake Pleasant, Arizona. I discuss some of the history of the lake, the dams and water sources and some of the key features to be found in this area. I share some of the 4 recommended trails and a brief review of the birding experience in the area. The tales portion closes with 5 things you may not know and some cautionary notes on water safety.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 53 of Arizona Trails and Tales, I feature Tempe Town Lake and Tempe's past with being a "Sundown Town" in honor of Martin Luther King's birthday/holiday. This recording discusses the history and need for Tempe Town Lake and recreational opportunities. The tales portion reviews Tempe's history regarding Civil Rights and includes a brief description of the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural center in Phoenix.

*Note the birds were very active in the background during this podcast.

Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.