Local ecologist warns that ocotillo destruction is bad news for hummingbirds
Join noted ecologist James W. Cornett as he speaks about hummingbirds and their delicate relationship with the dwindling ocotillo population March 11.
Hummingbirds are one of the most recognizable birds, and those that migrate depend on the nectar of the ocotillo plant when visiting the desert. Ocotillos are struggling to survive in the Southwest and are dying out, particularly in the California deserts. This means hummingbirds are losing a major source of food. In the next few years and decades, hummingbird survival will depend on what happens to ocotillos and what each homeowner does in their own backyard.
Learn about hummingbirds and their resurrection when Cornett presents his latest research findings at the next Twentynine Palms Historical Society Friday Lecture Series event, "Hummingbirds and Ocotillos: Can’t Live Without You," on March 11 at the society's Old Schoolhouse Museum.
In addition to being an ecologist, Cornett is the author of dozens of scientific papers as well as 44 books. He is the first professional naturalist to have visited all nine of the world's great deserts and is currently writing a book on his travels and research in each.
Note: As of publication time for this article, the society is requiring all guests of this event to wear a mask, and social distancing measures will be taken.
If you go
What: Hummingbirds and Ocotillos: Can’t Live Without You
When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 11
Where: Twentynine Palms Historical Society Old Schoolhouse Museum, 6760 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms
Cost: $5 at the door
More info: www.29palmshistorical.com
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Twentynine Palms Historical Society to give talk on hummingbirds
