![]() ![]() Due to the evolving habitat, Kostecke said the mourning doves can’t take advantage of newer resources quite as well as other species. Richard Kostecke looks through his binoculars at a flock of birds in the Dove Springs District Park.Įven inspiring the neighborhood name doesn't save these doves from being pushed out. They could come back to the springs for water. “They could go out into the open areas and feed on seeds. “It should have been a really good place for doves,” Kostecke said. The morning doves’ basic needs of food, water and cover would have been met in the neighborhood’s open areas before changes to the landscape were made. He said Dove Springs was most likely named for the mourning dove’s large population in the neighborhood and that they are widespread across the U.S. “We are dealing with a lot of different changes, whether it's continued development, and that's going to continue to have an impact on the natural resources in and around the city,” said Richard Kostecke, a conservation biologist and ornithologist.Īlso Travis Audubon board member, Kostecke holds a wider knowledge of birds than most people. But some of these natural features might be updating. When the neighborhood was built in the 70’s, they took inspiration from nature-and from the moniker given to the area by previous residents–and named the subdivisions Dove Springs. “When I'd walk out, they would in mass fly off.”ĭevelopers often name new subdivisions after natural features in the area. “They would just perch themselves on the trees,” Aguirre said. When she first moved to the area, Aguirre noticed the large population of doves living around her home. It’s only fitting that this natural environment resides close to a neighborhood named Dove Springs. You can also download a Tortolita Mountain map.Ana Aguirre’s home is surrounded by trees and a creek, with her own backyard having a small greenbelt. Or you can sign up for hikes guided by Marana Parks and Recreation. If you are interested in exploring the Tortolita Mountains with those who know their way through the wilderness, consider joining the Highland Hiking Club. Best of all there are trails designed for many skill and energy levels. It’s home to an incredible array of Sonoran Desert wildlife like tortoises, foxes, mule deer and desert-dwelling birds, plus vegetation like towering saguaros, ocotillos, cholla cactus and wildflowers. The Tortolita Mountains are called a hiker’s paradise for good reason. Follow the Dove Mountain Community Trail for 1 additional mile to return to the Wild Burro Trailhead. This 2.5 mile section of trail terminates at the Dove Mountain Community Trail, adjacent to the Golf Club at Dove Mountain and Cayton’s Restaurant. The UJT climbs steadily through giant boulders and saguaro cactus for the first mile before getting to the ridgeline and eventual descent. 6 miles until you come to the junction for the Upper Javelina Trail. ![]() Start off by following the Wild Burro Trail for approximately. The 4.1-mile, dog-friendly UJT begins at the Wild Burro Trailhead with ample parking and public restrooms. The UJT offers rocky paths with sharp turns that reveal amazing desert vistas. You can also shorten the trip by an hour or so by taking the Hotel Spur Trail from the trailhead. It’s best to give yourself two to 2.5 hours to complete the trek. Time your hike late in the afternoon and just in time for a stunning Southern Arizona sunset. It’s known for gourmet burgers, amazing milkshakes, signature entrées, extensive selection of regional craft beers, and view of the night lights of Tucson. Cayton’s is one of the six restaurants at The Golf Club at Dove Mountain. Dove Mountain residents are surrounded by more than 50 miles of popular hiking trails offering magnificent views and leading to rustic ruins, ancient petroglyphs, rugged canyons, wildflower super blooms and more.Ī perfect trail for a sunset hike is the Upper Javelina Trail (UJT), especially because it ends near the popular Cayton’s Restaurant. The resort community of Dove Mountain sits at the base of and within the foothills of the scenic Tortolita Mountain range. ![]()
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