Chiricahua National Monument Birdwatching Travel Guide

The Chiricahua National Monument sits on the west side of the Chiricahua Mountains. Here you will be able to see Zone-tailed Hawks and Golden Eagles as well as the Hepatic Tanagers, Grace’s and other warblers, Strickland’s Woodpecker, and a variety of hummingbirds.
Along Cave Creek Canyon in the Coronado National Forest you may spot the Calliope Hummingbird, Peregrine Falcons, Elegant Trogons, and even some Burrowing Owls.
Sulfur Springs Valley is one of the best spots for winter birding. Sandhill Cranes, Lark Buntings, Curved-bill Thrashers, birds of prey, and sparrows are among the many species that can be found here. The Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, formally known to veteran birders as the Hyannis Cattle Company, is in the Sulfur Springs Valley and is a known hotspot for birding.
Volunteer opportunities are also available at the Southwestern Research Station. In exchange for food and lodging, boundless birding, naturalist activities, and classes, volunteers must commit to chores at the station for 24 hours per week for four to eight weeks. Contact the Research Volunteer Coordinator for more information.
Every summer Victor Emanuel Nature Tours operates Camp Chiricahua. A 12-day excursion for young naturalists, the tour begins and ends in Tucson with the majority of the time spent in the Chiricahua mountain range.
The Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory is the best resource for birding activities in the area. It offers bird lists, hot spot recommendations, birding guides, and a calendar of events.

Chiricahua National Monument Birdwatching Overview

The rugged fault-block range that makes up the Chiricahua Mountains in southeast Arizona is home to a wide variety of birds, partially because of the many different habitats that the mountains encompass. From deep canyons to grasslands to the high-elevation sky-islands, Chiricahua has a variety of places for birds to make their homes. And there are numerous species that just stop by on their way to somewhere else. Read More

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Chiricahua National Monument Birdwatching Travel Guide