There is a sort of rock garden surrounding the pool, though mostly on one side of it. In it are cactuses of different shapes and sizes, as well as a few plants that bloom with little flowers during one of the desert seasons. I have never seen a snake in the garden, but apparently they are around. During certain times of day I see birds of prey wheeling overhead, in the wash, most likely looking for mice or other creatures they might swoop down upon. They fly in circles, these birds, and slowly move down the length of the territory above which they are gliding.