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Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: Although it is often possible to see California condors on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, the condor release site viewing area at the base of the Vermilion Cliffs is the most reliable spot to cross these giant birds off your life list.
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Madera Canyon: The mountain canyons of southern Arizona attract an impressive variety of bird life, from species common in lowland desert to those that prefer forest settings. Madera Canyon is a good place to see birds that prefer both habitats.
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Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge: Gray hawks and masked bobwhite quails are among the refuge's rarer birds, but a cienega (wetland), lake, and stream attract plenty of others.
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Patagonia: With a year-round stream, a Nature Conservancy preserve on the edge of town, and Sonoita Creek State Natural Area, Patagonia is one of the best spots in the state for sighting various flycatcher species.
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Ramsey Canyon Preserve: Nearly 200 species of birds, including 14 species of hummingbirds, frequent this canyon, one of the top birding spots in the country. Also nearby are a couple of privately owned birding hot spots.
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San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area: Water is a scarce commodity in the desert, so it isn't surprising that the San Pedro River attracts a lot of animal life, including more than 300 bird species. This is a life-list bonanza spot.
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Cave Creek Canyon: Although other rare birds can be seen in this remote canyon, most people come in hopes of spotting the elegant trogon, which reaches the northernmost limit of its range here.
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Cochise Lakes (Willcox Ponds): Wading birds in the middle of the desert? You'll find them at the Willcox sewage-treatment ponds south of town. Avocets, sandhill cranes, and a variety of waterfowl all frequent these shallow bodies of water.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
