Public Programs
These programs are offered to the public to create a better understanding of our Sonoran Desert through enjoyable and informative experiences, and provide opportunities to learn practical applications for working and playing in balance with our environment. (More details...)
Raptor Free Flight is a dynamic bird of prey flight demonstration that occurs in the open desert showcasing natural behavior of native birds. See barn owls move like ghosts across the desert or a prairie falcon dive from high in the sky or Harris Hawks soar together. (More details...)
Running Wild is an innovative live-animal presentation that combines natural behaviors of small desert mammals and birds with projected images, music and narration. This year's educational theme is "Home Sweet Habitat." It is presented daily except Tuesdays and Wednesdays in Warden Oasis Theater at 11 a.m. (More details...)
Ever wanted to share your life with a tortoise? The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum established the Tortoise Adoption Program (TAP) to benefit the welfare of captive and wild tortoises and turtles. Private individuals become turtle/tortoise custodians, not owners. The program operates from April 1 to October 1 every year, when the tortoises are active. (More details...)
A unique chance to experience the Desert Museum through the eyes of an animal keeper. The walking tour is approximately ½ hours and covers ½ mile. Guests will be able to meet animals up close (Otters and Bighorn sheep) and go behind the scenes and learn about animal care. (More details...)
Invading species of plants and animals are creating wastelands across the desert. They have enormous powers; they spread disease; they devour native life. Some are destroying the very land under our feet. Think of them as the first wave of an assault that could drive the greatest mass extinction since the end of the dinosaurs. What is causing this invasion? What can we do to stop the rising tide? In this confusing era, only one thing is certain: these are... strange days on planet Earth. . (More details...)
The Research and Conservation program encompasses the scientific functions of the Desert Museum. Our activities range from conducting ecological research in the Sonoran Desert region to advising education, collections, and other museum staff on scientific matters. We have a strong commitment to scientific accuracy and currency in all of our publications and interpretive programs. (More details...)
