Back to Show
In the Americas with David Yetman
Islands in the Desert
Season 8
Episode 806
In southern Arizona a handful of mountain ranges jut up from the desert, producing a dramatic change in landscapes and habitats. They are called Sky Islands because their higher slopes are wetter and harbor animals and plants not found below. We visit three of the best-known islands and talk with people who know them best.
Support Provided By
26:46
For millennia turquoise has been the choice for indigenous Southwestern jewelers, and others.
18:51
In coastal Oaxaca runaway slaves joined indigenous folk in their communities and culture.
26:46
Popolocas of southern Mexico preceded their Aztec conquerors in their rich desert environment.
26:46
2000 years ago, kings of the ancient Mayas at Copán, Honduras, carved their history in rock.
26:46
Toronto explodes as summer Carnival festivities begin, safe from the wintry blasts.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
Mexico has two Carnival parades like no others in the states of Puebla and Morelos.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
The Butantan Institute in São Paulo houses venomous creatures that protect human lives.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
The arrival of crowds and developers threaten unusual features of Baja California.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
Native cultures view snakes as spiritually significant elements of nature.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
Our largest national park has become an important natural laboratory.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
The once-great Colorado River faces a dried-out future as more rely on its resources.