Arizona Trails and Tales with Rich Fuhrmann

In Episode 89, Rich takes us to Wickenburg, Arizona, for a day filled with birds, bats, and the unique character of a historic Arizona town. The episode begins with the search for the rare Louisiana Waterthrush spotted at Hassayampa River Preserve. From there, Rich heads to the Bats and Buzzards on the Bridge event, hosted by Arizona Game and Fish and Maricopa County Parks, where birds, bats, and the people who love them come together. For the Tales portion, Rich explores the town of Wickenburg and reflects on the simple joy of spending an entire day wandering, observing, and enjoying a place without having to rush through it. Sometimes the best adventures aren't about how far you travel—they're about taking the time to really experience where you are. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In Episode 88, Rich takes a break from the trails after a relentlessly difficult workweek left him too burned out to get outside. Instead of forcing an adventure, he reflects on the importance of stepping back, recharging, and remembering that the wild will still be there when you’re ready to return. He then looks ahead to an exciting weekend of bats, buzzards, and birding, including Bats and Buzzards on the Bridge in Wickenburg and a bird walk with Tom L. Rich also discusses his proposal for the Feathers & Fangs Festival and the partnerships and logistics involved in turning a nature-festival idea into reality. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In Episode 87, A Big Year in Arizona, Rich talks about some of the recent rare bird sightings that have captured the attention of Arizona birders. He shares what it’s like to find these unexpected birds, the excitement of seeing them, and the connections that develop with fellow birders along the way. Rich also discusses how you can have your own Big Year right where you live, without traveling across the country—or around the world—to compete. He shares an article that explores the idea of focusing your Big Year on your own local area and discovering just how much birding adventure can be found close to home. The episode concludes with the Tales portion, featuring Janie Stewart and her remarkable 2021 Big Year in Yavapai County. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In this 86th episode, Rich explores the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, also known as the Gilbert Recharge Ponds. He discusses the history and purpose behind the area’s reclamation efforts and looks at the remarkable habitat they have created for birds and other wildlife. Rich also explores some of the birding and recreational opportunities that make the preserve such a unique place in the Valley. In the Tales portion, Rich turns his attention north to the Grand Canyon and examines the factors that contributed to the recent flash-flood damage. He also offers a glimpse into what the experience was like through a news report featuring the firsthand accounts of three survivors. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers-Thank you Mike!

In Episode 85, Rich discusses a return to a few favorite birding locations and the surprise of seeing several juvenile Cooper’s Hawks. He explores the joy of returning to a familiar place and simply being there with a loved family member. Using Cornell Lab’s Birds of the World, Rich shares some field marks and behaviors of the Cooper’s Hawk. The Tales portion closes with a brief reflection on falconer Harry McElroy. The theme song was written and performed by Mike Myers. Thank you, Mike!

In episode 84: Rich discusses his recent experience at Rattlesnake Ranch in Cave Creek, Arizona, where he completed the Level 1 Venomous Snake Handling course through the Rattlesnake Conservancy (Save the Buzztales). In this episode, we examine common rattlesnake myths, safety protocols, and how lessons from working with rattlesnakes can be applied to our everyday interactions with people. The Tales portion explores the tragic hit-and-run death of Florida herper Ed Cassano, who was visiting Arizona. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 83: Rich discusses the importance of making preparations for the upcoming season’s adventures during the slower pace of August in the Sonoran Desert. He breaks down planning strategies, research, and other preparation for upcoming fall adventures on Mount Ord and in Madera Canyon. Also included is a discussion of the Santa Rita Lodge and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, two additional destinations planned for visits this fall. The “Tales” portion of the episode focuses on William “Bill” Carr, one of the founders of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Music composed and performed by Mike Myers. Note: Next week’s episode will likely be recorded on Monday due to a course.

In episode 82, Rich explores some ways of coping with the Extreme Heat Warnings that Maricopa has been under for the past week including exercises from home and in indoor spaces. This episode touches on how the Palo Verde and Talus Snail adapt to the extreme heat and thrive during the monsoon. The tales portion reviews the survival story of Ann Rodgers and how she and her dog survived for 9 days lost in the desert. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 81 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich shares direct lessons the desert taught him since living in Arizona since 2001. The tales portion features a recent story of a father and son getting stuck out in the desert off roading. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 80 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich shares some ideas on how identifying female birds will improve your overall birding experience and expand your birding skills. This episode shares a bit about road cruising for snakes and how even a night without anything being spotted can still be a learning experience. The tales portion focuses on Dr. Earyn McGee an active herpetologist, birder, naturalist who is continuing efforts to encourage others to become involved in conservation efforts. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In Episode 79 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich explores snake week 2026 and some of the programs about our snakes. Two snakes are highlighted for their benefits to the residents on Arizona: the California Kingsnake and the Sonoran Gopher snake.  The tales portion highlights the contributions to herpetology from Rom Whittaker.   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 78 is a reflection on the outdoor experiences I had while on summer break. The episode highlights: volunteering, spending time with nature, seeking experiences and the Sonoran Desert Toad. I also provide some context and reflections on letting a hobby turn into an unpleasant hustle and how to take it back. The tales portion focuses on Joseph Wood Krutch.   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 77 of Arizona Trails and Tales introduces the concept of Nature Journaling, explores the importance of continued summer birding and shares the concept of a free course that will be offered in November of this year on Nature Journaling. The tales portion explores the contributions of Herbert Brown to Arizona's rich ornithological traditions.   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 76 explores the thinking and controversy over closing certain Phoenix trails due to Excessive Heat Warnings. This hot button issue frequently shows up on social media forums. This episode explores both perspectives and leaves it to the listener to decide. The Tales portion focuses on two rescues-one where the hiker seemed to do everything right and still needed rescue, the other a famous tale of the rescuers who messed up causing a viral sensation in 2019. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 75 of Arizona Trails and Tales examines the similarities and differences in adaptations between summer species in the Sonoran Desert and Winter species in the Hudson Valley of New York. Happy Father's Day listeners!   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 71 Memorial Day weekend titled: Adventure, Remembrance & Arizona Legends! Rich shares a brief history of Memorial Day, explores a variety of activities to do in Arizona this weekend in 2026, offers some words of caution, but most of all wants to enjoy this weekend of remembrance and celebration with all of you. The tales portion explores the significant contributions of Arizona's 158th Regiment (Bushmasters) since the 1800s. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

*Dear listeners-the first minute of audio cut out as it was recorded on my phone and I couldn't edit it out. I apologize for this error* Episode 70 discusses the profound beauty of life at the Hassayampa River Preserve, the impending sense of loss due to fire and other natural disaster and a reflection of our responsibility. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 69 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses his recent citizen science contributions to ebird and reflects on some questions about which pair of binoculars are right for me? Rich uses the analogy of watching football on progressively better television sets to help you make the determination as to which pair might be best for you right now. This episode also explores who is walking with you right now exploring different age groups including suggestions for different parks and activities. The Tales portion focuses on George Billingsley and his contribution to the Grand Canyon. This podcast ends with a 1 hour challenge for the listeners. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 68 of Arizona Trails and Tales: Petty, Peaceful, and Present: What Bird walks Taught Me or Seeing the bird and not just the branch it was sitting on. In this episode Rich discusses some of his moral/ethical dilemmas with being part of bird walks and bird clubs. He highlights an event that crushed his ego and brought about his passive-aggressive tendencies. Rich reflects on perspective changing and how he has a greater appreciation of finding a balance as both a participant and leader. The dark side of bird walks is reviewed as are some of the benefits of joining a bird walk in this podcast. The tales portion recognizes Japanese-Americans in Arizona in honor of Asian-American Pacific Islander history month. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 67 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich highlights a recent trip up to Cornville/Page Springs in Arizona. This episode features attractions in town and the experience of visiting the Bubbling Spring Ponds, The Page Springs Fish Hatchery and exploring the Lower Oak Creek IBA. The Black Hawk Loop Trail is given a brief overview as a short recounting of the 52 different species seen on this trip. The tales portion features "Hi Jolly" a key figure in Arizona's history in recognition of Arab-American History month. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 66 of Arizona Trails and Tales features a recent visit to the Agua Fria Monument and a Sonoran Audubon Birding trip to the Agua Fria IBA. This podcast describes some of the history, sights and things to do in this amazing place found just off the I-17 about 40 minutes north of Phoenix. The tales portion discusses a bit about what makes this an IBA area. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 65 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich reviews the Wilderness First Aid course he took this weekend to consider if this might be something to add to your own skill set. Rich is including two meditative thought experiments from when you are out on the trail. This episode was recorded on the cell phone and may lack the theme song written and recorded by Mike Myers and has a few audio fades due to being outside.

Episode 64 of Arizona Trails and Tales features Saguaro Lake's history and many of the activities one can engage in while visiting. A key feature of this episode is the Butcher Jones Trail hike which is a must do excursion! The tales portion closes with a general warning about bee swarms this time of year and a hiker who just survived an attack this past Saturday, April 4, 2026 in Phoenix. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 63 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich highlights the need for an improved first aid kit and explores the benefits of attending an upcoming wilderness first aid class. Mooney Falls is explored in this episode including the hike, the history and a bit about the experience there. The tales portion features a recent rescue of an injured hiker from Mooney Falls. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 62 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses how to overcome a failure in completing a strenuous hike. This episode also features some local birding spots in the west valley and the importance of being outside.  An article from the Audubon is shared about the economic positive impact Arizona's Recreational activities has on the state. The Tales portion closes with Rich sharing some of the highlights of his guide to leading a nature hike.   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

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.  

Episode 52 of Arizona Trails and Tales features reflections on volunteering in your parks and other ways to participate in stewardship. Recorded on the cell phone without theme music.

In episode 51 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich highlights a recent road and birding trip with his friend and mentor Tom to multiple areas in Arlington, Arizona. Rich discusses a few different areas and experiences from Arlington to nearby areas of Buckeye, Tonopah and Gila Bend. Several environments are explored and the wildlife and features are described. The tales portion concludes with the intriguing possibility of traveling the Aqua Caliente Road.   Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 50 of Arizona Trails and Tales features the history and exploration of Encanto Park in Phoenix. Learn about the founding and funding of the park, some of the struggles it has overcome, and why this is must visit. This episode also covers some of the birds found at Encanto Park and reflects on a recent guided bird walk in the White Tank Regional Park. The episode closes with 5 Arizona themed ways to ring in the New Year. Theme sone composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 49 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich features the grey fox spotted at the Hassayampa River Preserve and the importance of being able to unwind. In this episode, Rich also provides some strategies and reflections on overcoming social anxiety and the importance of trying to get out of your own comfort zone-even if not fully successful. This episode features the general cholla cactus and specifically some features of the Christmas cholla which tends to have noticeable fruit this time of year. The tales portion closes with the former tourist trap now abandoned/leveled town that was Santa Claus, Arizona. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 48 of Arizona Trails and tales, Rich highlights a recent trip to Estrella Mountains and participating in the walk/run at the Kiwanis Park in Tempe as part of the Michael J. Fox fundraiser for Parkinson's. Rich gives brief review of the Kiwanis Park and shares some of his experiences living in Tempe. This episode also includes some cautions and advice for those who are of age and are using legal intoxicants while hiking, camping and fishing. The episode closes with an excerpt from Marshall Trimble's In Old Arizona: Pullin Legs attached to Tenderfeet. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 47 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich shares his experience participating in the Gila River Indian Community's Winter Bird count at the Pee Posh wetlands. He also provides some reasons you should join a Christmas bird count and how easy it is to find and event and participate. Rich discusses overcoming the where to Pee dilemma when traveling in a mixed gender group. The tales portion shares the story of how the bluebird got their color. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers (Thank you as always Mike).

In episode 46 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich shares information about the popular Flatiron Trail in the Superstition Mountains and features a bit about "Flatiron Jim". We also bid a hopefully temporary farewell to Mike Aimee and the Arizona Birdcall podcast due to his recent surgery. Rich shares some of his recent West Valley birding over Thanksgiving break and the increase in  winter species. The episode closes with the Tale of the Lost Dutchman Mine in the Superstition Mountains. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 45 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich breaks down three reasons you should go birdwatching. Rich shares his experience and advice for beginning a birding group and what you may want to consider for a bird walk. He shares information about Arizona's hummingbirds highlighting features of regular visitors and some special hummingbirds to keep an eye out for. Rich also offers some advice on attracting hummingbirds to your home using specific plants and how to maintain your hummingbird feeder. The episode closes with an old Hopi tale on how Hummingbird saved the children. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 44 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich describes the hike on the Vietnam Memorial Trail located in Surprise Arizona. Also featured in this episode: Finding birds at Hassayampa, staying safe in the rain while hiking, hiking and outdoor activities with out of state Thanksgiving guests, a little desert philosophy and closing with the tale of The Ranch Hand's Secret Gold Mine. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers

In episode 43 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses Paloma Park in Peoria and experiencing birdwatching and hiking as a snow bird. Included in this episode is a brief review of the Monarch Butterfly and the Queen Butterfly and how planting the Desert Milkweed helps these species thrive. The tales portion features a review of recreation in old time Arizona by Marshall Trimble. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 42 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses selecting the right gear to support cooler weather hiking, outdoors experiences and camping preparedness. This episode features a short segment on harvesting Indigenous seeds and helping to eliminate invasive species. The episode closes with some typical "Ghost" encounters while camping. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

*Budgies can be heard in the background In episode 41 of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich discusses a recent bird walk at the White Tanks. Included in this episode are some thoughts about keeping wildlife safe during Halloween and the town of Two Guns Arizona. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.