Yeah, wow, nice pics. I like the pinkish belly on that NM klaub (people get bit like that though. Don't push your luck.) And the little skunk was super-cute. Skunks are almost always charming little weirdos.
We hiked upon this bear while birding and he was disconcertingly unafraid.
They're such individuals. Most haul ass but some just look back at you. I think mostly it depends on life experience, but there's probably some genetic component to it as well. Like fearless vs cautious little kids - what comes outta mom, is just what comes outta mom. I recall one truly enormous Santa Ritas bear snuffling around my truck once when I got back from quite a herp-hike. That thing
had to have been hounded at least once in its life. He sure didn't think much of me though.
Much of Arizona is dry an hot in May
True enough Cushen, but one option that won't be is above the Rim. Also, there's the Strip. Finally, you've got the middle and higher elevations in the Mojave. Add them up, there's about half the state.
Plenty of great AZ herrping outside the Madrean zone. Think about it...
As for SE AZ in May - been there done that (a couple of times) - I ain't goin' back. Not in May.
cheers