Zzyzx: The Main
Pond Area
The main pond is fringed by reeds and hosts a large population of the
endemic Mojave Chub, as well as a variety of pupfish brought in by Doc's sons
using an old iron bathtub in the back of a truck. The pond also hosts a couple
of pairs of coots that have taken up permanent residence, plus a shifting
population of migratory birds.
The fountain is practical as well
as decorative. Because the main pond is artificial, it will dry up unless
replenished by artesian water, which is supplied via the fountain. At the side
of the pond is a ramada that offers some relief from the 120 F afternoon heat.
Some of the "Zycot" cottages used by visiting researchers and students
can be seen to the left. The Boulevard of Dreams runs along that side of the
pond. If you stay in Zycot Z-4 (as I have) then you can say that you have slept
in the alphabetically last room in the alphabetically last place on Earth. The
Desert Studies Consortium should wise up to this and start to advertise to
thrill-seekers; $350 per night would seem like a bargain to the right person.
Enough said.