Your first birding visit
Be sure to check out the package deals in our Online Nature Shop-- a great way to gear up for birding in Arizona!
If you are coming to southeast Arizona for the first time, it is helpful to become acquainted with the common birds and habitats. You could begin in the Tucson area palo verde/saguaro desertscrub where the typical species include Gambel’s Quail, Greater Roadrunner, Gila Woodpecker, Gilded Flicker, Verdin, Cactus Wren, Curve-billed Thrasher, Pyrrhuloxia, Canyon Towhee and in summer, White-winged Dove and Black-chinned Hummingbird, or in winter White-crowned Sparrow and Anna’s Hummingbird. Agua Caliente Park, Catalina State Park, Tucson Mountain Park, the two units of Saguaro National Park and Sabino Canyon are good examples of desertscrub near Tucson. To see water birds and shorebirds, the ponds at Sweetwater Wetlands and Arthur Pack Park are good from fall through spring.
Here are some resources to help you plan a trip to Southeast Arizona:
- Look for an upcoming free Tucson Audubon field trip
- Check the Southeast Arizona Rare Bird Alert
- Discover local Tucson area birding locations
- Explore Tucson area birding month by month
- Learn tips for safe desert birding
- Southeast Arizona birding & nature books recommended by our Nature Shops
Birds & Business Alliance Services
When staying in southeast Arizona, utilize these business members who support Tucson Audubon!
Local bird guiding provided by Birds & Business Alliance Members- Places to stay - Accommodations for birders provided by Birds & Business Alliance Members
- List of Alliance Members - Support Tucson Audubon by supporting these businesses while in the region!
Gift Memberships - Introduce a friend or family member to Tucson Audubon and further support our programs and work!
