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In 1856, William Henry Perkin, an 18-year old chemistry student at the time, was trying to synthesize malaria drug, when accidentally developed a purple dye. This dye is believed to be one of the first steps of chemistry taking over the world.

What living in a world made from chemicals means for "The Sensitives".

Also on Arizona Spotlight: Jes Baker on making self-love a part of the pandemic; and a Summer 2020 insect update from "The King of Sting", Justin O. Schmidt.

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge encompasses nearly 118,000 acres southwest of Tucson and includes a stretch of the border with Mexico.

Work starts on new section of border wall in national wildlife refuge

North-Dakota-based Fisher Sand and Gravel has broken ground on a $1.3 billion project in southeast Arizona.

Studies show pets help people maintain good mental health during periods of isolation.

Pets play special role for people coping with pandemic

Experts say people living with pets cope better with feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Scientists have been studying the Colorado River, shown here from above Deer Creek Falls, for nearly four decades to understand the environmental impacts of the Glen Canyon Dam on a water source used by around 40 million people in seven states. The environment, climate change, tribal rights and those water users will all be considered in river-management talks expected to begin later this year.

Humpback chub 'alien abductions' help frame the future of the Colorado River

While not considered very "charismatic," this keystone fish plays an important role in water policy.

Outdoor pets must have easy access to water and cool airflow during hot weather.

Animal experts caution extra care for pets in hot weather

Excessive heat warning means companions should move indoors if possible.

Looking west toward the San Rafael Valley and the Patagonia Mountains.

Groups say border wall construction threatens biodiversity of Arizona sky islands

Conservation groups say the animals rely on the ranges to travel between habitats in the U.S. and Mexico.

With many activities restricted during the pandemic, many find themselves observing the natural world more intensely.

The world outside, during the pandemic

As humans hunker down, life continues outside our homes.

Toni Leo owns Whisper's Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) in Elgin that takes in elderly and unwanted animals.

Small nonprofits struggling as need for services grows

Arizona nonprofits are reporting a 20% increase in expenses, but a pandemic is a bad time to ask for donations.

A view of the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.

Environmentalists sue BLM over grazing in San Pedro conservation area

Groups say allowing cattle grazing to continue harms the San Pedro's riparian landscape.

A kitten meows inside its cage at the Pima Animal Care Center.

Pima Animal Care Center preparing for influx of pets as outbreak takes toll on owners

The center is still facilitating pet adoptions by appointment only.

Most cats and dogs at Pima Animal Care Center were moved to foster homes during COVID-19 crisis.

COVID-19 prompts changes at Pima Animal Care Center

PACC animals have been moved to foster homes, and fewer employees are working at the center.

Israel Guerrero grooming Boomer at the Pascua Yaqui Tribe's Tortuga Ranch February 27, 2020.

'Horse healers' give Pascua Yaqui kids a therapy option

The Kava'i Hitevi program at Tortuga Ranch allows youths and their families to share their feelings through equine therapy.

Borderlands symposium explores web of people, wildlife in Sonoran Desert

The Ajo conference last week brought together scientists, tribal leaders and community members.

At least 20 small fishing boats surround Sea Shepherd's ship M/V Sharpie in the vaquita refuge on March 3, 2020.

Conservationists attacked again in Sea of Cortez despite presence of Mexican authorities

The group working to protect the nearly extinct vaquita marina porpoise was confronted for the third time this year.

"The 89-90 Trip" reaches its destination.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: Exploring the historic hospitality of the Harvey Houses in Arizona; and Clive D.L. Wynne explores the emotional lives of canines in his book "Dog is Love".

A Sonoran Desert bee (genus Melissodes) identified by The Tucson Bee Collaborative, photographed by Bruce D. Taubert.

How to ID a Bee.

Also on Arizona Spotlight: A closer look at how Tucson neighborhoods voted in the last local election; The 89-90 Trip: Day Three begins in Panguitch, Utah; and "Tilly the Trickster" at the Live Theatre Workshop.

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