Creating a Proven Refuge in an Uncertain World

The amazing saguaro cactus is found exclusively in the Sonoran Desert. This second largest desert in North America extends from southern Arizona to the bottom of California, and into western Mexico covering 120,000 square miles. Temperatures can reach more than 120° in the summer and annual rainfall is often less than 3 inches.

The holes found in these cacti are created by the Gila woodpecker who’s long strong beak makes easy work of the soft flesh of the cactus. The sweet red fruit of the saguaro also provides food and moisture and is a vital source for desert animals. 

Although the saguaro can take a very very long time to grow, (10 years to reach one inch) it can eventually reach the average height of forty feet. This height provides the birds that live within them, protection from predators and a vantage point for hunting.

I found it interesting that when a woodpecker creates a hole in the cactus, the saguaro secretes a sap that hardens to create a protective “boot” around the hole making the circumference strong and protects the nest from water damage.

Once the woodpecker abandons the nest, other birds will use it, like this sparrow.

The birds that live in the Sonoran Deseret need to navigate the climate and scarcity of their environment. Those that also live inside the saguaro cactus must be aware of the cacti’s outer spines that are as sharp and penetrating as a steel needle. Though their outside habitat is fraught with danger, the nest inside is a protected and safe place to raise a family. The insulating flesh of the cactus maintains cooler temperatures in the blistering heat of summer and warmer temperatures on cold winter nights when it can sometimes drop below freezing.

Our world today is full of uncertainly and danger. We too must learn to navigate outside forces in order to protect our families. But like the birds of the Sonoran Deseret, we can, with the Lord’s help, create homes that are a safe haven no matter what is happening in the outside world.