Southern Arizona is one of the most popular destinations for bird watchers from around the world – and for good reason. Throughout four counties in Southeast Arizona, you’ll find over 500 species of birds, and more than 50 species can only be seen there. But where should you begin if you’re visiting Arizona for birdwatching for the first time?
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Birdwatchers from around the world flock to the San Pedro riparian area to view resident and migratory birds that travel along the river throughout the year. More than 100 species of breeding birds call this area home, and another 200+ species of migrant and wintering birds pass through every year, including the Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Green Kingfisher, Gray Hawk, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Botteri’s Sparrow.
Huachuca Mountains
At the Huachuca Mountains, located in Cochise County, Arizona, your first stop should be Ramsey Canyon. There, you can find the hummingbird capital of Arizona. If you’re new to birding, stop off at the Visitor Center for tips on where to spot hummingbirds and other notable species that frequent the area. At Carr Canyon, you can find the band-tailed pigeon, buff-breasted flycatcher, and the olive warbler, as well as three species of nuthatches. At Miller Canyon, you can find hummingbirds, Northern Goshawk, whiskered screech owls, spotted owls, AZtech thrush, and flame-colored tanager. Finally, stop at the Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary, home to 200 species of birds, including the Lucifer hummingbird.
Chiricahua Mountains
The Chiricahua Mountains are the largest, most remote, and most unique mountain range for bird watching. First, go to the South Fork Cave Creek Trail, where you can find peregrine falcons and blue-throated mountain gems. At Stewart Campground, you can find the South Fork trail to look for Montezuma Quail, bridled titmouse, mountain warblers, and yellow-eyed junco. At Southwestern Research Station, you’ll find the common poorwill and flammulated owl.
Santa Rita Mountains
In Madera Canyon, which is an hour south of Tucson, Arizona, you can find some of the best birding sites in Southeast Arizona. You might be able to spot the Elegant Trogon, as well as hundreds of other Arizona specialty species. At the Santa Rita Grasslands, you can find the Botteri’s, Cassin’s, Rufous-winged, and Rufous-crowned sparrows. At Proctor Road, you can spot the Blue Grosbeak and Varied Bunting, as well as Montezuma Quail, Bushtit, Scott’s Oriole, and more. At the Santa Rita Lodge, there is a viewing deck where you can spot Elf Owls and Whiskered Screech Owls. And don’t leave without visiting Carrie Nation Trail and Old Baldy Trail.
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