On Mon, Apr 6, 2026, 9:45 AM Deanna Mac Phail <deanna.macphail...>
wrote:
> During our early evening periods of watching for Red-tailed Hawk activity
> here on the west side we see the occasional TUVU and a few BLVU. Twice
> last week we had a swirl of 18 Turkey Vultures appear over Little Cat
> mountain and then drift off to the south.
>
> Deanna MacPhail
> West side
>
>
> On Sun, Apr 5, 2026 at 9:19 PM Rosie Watts <aznmbirds...>
> wrote:
>
>> We've been anticipating the arrival of the Turkey Vulture migration
>> through our part of town since early March. We've had bad timing this
>> year, and only a bird or two here or there. We watch from our house, as
>> well as nearby Fort Lowell Park and also the Pantano Wash Riverwalk at
>> Glenn and Saguara. Even the few we've seen, don't seem to be putting down
>> or lifting off from the Pantano Wash in that area (often we see them in the
>> large pines and palms over by the Country club to the east, etc).
>>
>> But to our surprise and enjoyment, this afternoon we had a small
>> migratory group fly over us as we walked through the north half of the
>> pecan orchard. 9 or 10 birds flew over, and then a bit later we saw them
>> join another group over the wash below. Total of 19 birds counted. Our
>> (puny) high total for us this year. Granted, we haven't spent a lot of
>> time waiting around for them, but our observation time/pattern is roughly
>> equivalent to the past several years, with much lower/negligible numbers
>> this spring.
>>
>> The Lewis' woodpecker remains at the Riverwalk there, a special treat.
>>
>> Happy Spring Birding!
>>
>> Rosie and Jim Watts
>> Tucson, Arizona
>>
>
Date: 4/6/26 9:47 am From: Deanna Mac Phail (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Migrating Turkey Vultures Tucson
During our early evening periods of watching for Red-tailed Hawk activity
here on the west side we see the occasional TUVU and a few BLVU. Twice
last week we had a swirl of 18 Turkey Vultures appear over Little Cat
mountain and then drift off to the south.
Deanna MacPhail
West side
On Sun, Apr 5, 2026 at 9:19 PM Rosie Watts <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
> We've been anticipating the arrival of the Turkey Vulture migration
> through our part of town since early March. We've had bad timing this
> year, and only a bird or two here or there. We watch from our house, as
> well as nearby Fort Lowell Park and also the Pantano Wash Riverwalk at
> Glenn and Saguara. Even the few we've seen, don't seem to be putting down
> or lifting off from the Pantano Wash in that area (often we see them in the
> large pines and palms over by the Country club to the east, etc).
>
> But to our surprise and enjoyment, this afternoon we had a small migratory
> group fly over us as we walked through the north half of the pecan
> orchard. 9 or 10 birds flew over, and then a bit later we saw them join
> another group over the wash below. Total of 19 birds counted. Our (puny)
> high total for us this year. Granted, we haven't spent a lot of time
> waiting around for them, but our observation time/pattern is roughly
> equivalent to the past several years, with much lower/negligible numbers
> this spring.
>
> The Lewis' woodpecker remains at the Riverwalk there, a special treat.
>
> Happy Spring Birding!
>
> Rosie and Jim Watts
> Tucson, Arizona
>
We've been anticipating the arrival of the Turkey Vulture migration through
our part of town since early March. We've had bad timing this year, and
only a bird or two here or there. We watch from our house, as well as
nearby Fort Lowell Park and also the Pantano Wash Riverwalk at Glenn and
Saguara. Even the few we've seen, don't seem to be putting down or
lifting off from the Pantano Wash in that area (often we see them in the
large pines and palms over by the Country club to the east, etc).
But to our surprise and enjoyment, this afternoon we had a small migratory
group fly over us as we walked through the north half of the pecan
orchard. 9 or 10 birds flew over, and then a bit later we saw them join
another group over the wash below. Total of 19 birds counted. Our (puny)
high total for us this year. Granted, we haven't spent a lot of time
waiting around for them, but our observation time/pattern is roughly
equivalent to the past several years, with much lower/negligible numbers
this spring.
The Lewis' woodpecker remains at the Riverwalk there, a special treat.
Birded at 3 spots in the Cibola National Forest east of Albuquerque today.
Saw my FOS Broad-tailed Hummingbird at the Pine Flat Picnic Area/Trailhead
south of Tijeras, and another at Capulin Spring up on the Sandias. Also
had my FOS Green-tailed Towhee at Capulin Spring. Doc Long Picnic Area
down lower on the Sandias had a FOS Yellow-rumped Warbler and plenty of
Steller's Jays and Am. Robins. Total of 29 species for the day between all
3 places. Links to eBird checklists are below.
Date: 4/4/26 9:27 pm From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Catalina Lewis's Woodpeckers continuing
This morning I found three Lewis’s Woodpeckers along the power/utility poles by the school on Wilds Road. They have now been recorded every month since late November.
Date: 4/3/26 9:30 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 3 April 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on April 3, 2026; the next update will be made on April 10. Email
your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/zJiYCk6WGkC4nRYO7i2f2TGE4oz?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ttx_Cl8WJltko3O2yF9h9TzPrNy?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Broad-winged Hawk
#Short-tailed Hawk
*WESTERN GULL
*ELEGANT TERN
#Pacific Wren
#Brown Thrasher
#Tennessee Warbler
#Yellow-throated Warbler
#Louisiana Waterthrush
#Hooded Warbler
#Rufous-capped Warbler
#Golden-crowned Sparrow
GRAHAM COUNTY
An apparent *WESTERN GULL was photographed in Thatcher on 4/3 (Dorian
Escalante) on a street light across from the Denny’s (2875 W Thatcher Blvd).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
An *ELEGANT TERN was photographed at the Green Valley WRF on 4/3 (Caleb
Gordon). ACCESS NOTE: access is now through a pedestrian gate east of the
vehicle gate. Please park outside the fence and walk in.
In Florida Canyon (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Y5_bCp9WNpfyzJQnGs2uBTGhPww?<domain...>), a #TENNESSEE
WARBLER was photographed on 3/30 (Joan K) and a #GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW was
reported on 4/1 (JC Curd).
PATAGONIA
A #BROAD-WINGED HAWK was reported from Salero Canyon Rd on 4/2 (Anne
Tucker).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In upper Ramsey Canyon, a #PACIFIC WREN was reported again on 4/2 (Brett
Myskowski).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/PSSJCrgWPrT6Azw8pcQF3T4Zrx5?<domain...>)
A #BROWN THRASHER continued in a private yard in Portal on 3/30 (Richard
Webster, Rose Ann Rowlett).
A #YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER was photographed at the Jasper/Moisan feeders on
3/31 (m.ob.).
A #LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH was recorded along the creek on 4/1 (Ezekiel
Dobson). GPS (31.906628, -109.151849)
DOUGLAS area
A #HOODED WARBLER was recorded in Guadalupe Canyon on 3/31 (Grace Spella).
NOGALES area
#RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.). GPS
(31.417354, -111.196266)
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/zCGLCvm6WyF4WPO7GiwH4TQmHot?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/7aD7CxoWYAIBJgm1yCxS0TyBwMG?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/KM_ICypWZBtJNQ6rghgTPTxBcaC?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 4/1/26 1:16 pm From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro River Birding Walk
Hi Birders,
This morning's San Pedro River birding walk started with ominous skies and
a healthy breeze but pleasant temps. Undeterred by the wind, 12 birders
managed to find 46 species on the trails around the San Pedro House. With
the windy conditions, passerines were much easier to hear than to see but
still the group managed to get some decent looks at Lucy's Warblers,
Orange-crowned Warblers, Northern Yellow Warblers and Bell's Vireos. Also
braving the wind, a Great Blue Heron was hunkered down but still visible in
the nest at the top of a swaying cottonwood. The windy conditions seemed
to prompt the raptors to take to the skies as we saw Gray Hawk, Red-tailed
Hawk, and a number of swirling Turkey Vultures. The raptor highlight,
though, was our first Swainson's Hawk of the year zooming north above the
river.
Just another reminder to start thinking about which location you would like
to bird at for the Big Morning Birding Challenge portion of the Celebrate
the San Pedro festival on Saturday April 25. Teams will be birding along
the San Pedro at Waters Road (Casa de San Pedro), Hereford Bridge, San
Pedro House, Escapule Wash, and Millville (Charleston Bridge). Further
details can be found on the Friends of the San Pedro River Facebook page.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks every Wednesday of
April. For the month of April, the walks leave at 7:00a from the BLM’s San
Pedro House south of State Route 90 just west of the San Pedro River. We
walk about 4km, and we are out for about three hours. Bring your own
binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Wednesday April 8, at 7:00a.
Date: 4/1/26 10:54 am From: \netsailor.ph\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] SWAZ: Mittry Lake Fish Crow
Henry,  This is hilarious. You are the master of April Fools Birding reports!Best Regards,Pete
Peter Herstein
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 06:29:29 AM MST, henry detwiler (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> wrote:
Greetings Birders,
Haven't been out too much lately, so I was eagerly looking forward to birding Mittry Lake early this morning.
Soon after arriving I heard a nasal cawing--could it be??? And then I saw it--a Fish Crow! My first for Arizona and Yuma County!
I managed a nice photo that I posted here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/u5crCEKLJEtn31JlGsNfoT7lLh6?<domain...> Good birding,Henry D. DetwilerYuma, AZ
Date: 4/1/26 6:29 am From: henry detwiler (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SWAZ: Mittry Lake Fish Crow
Greetings Birders,
Haven't been out too much lately, so I was eagerly looking forward to birding Mittry Lake early this morning.
Soon after arriving I heard a nasal cawing--could it be??? And then I saw it--a Fish Crow! My first for Arizona and Yuma County!
I managed a nice photo that I posted here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LKn8Ck6WGkC46pYOGu2f2TGR5qx?<domain...> Good birding,Henry D. DetwilerYuma, AZ
The Mountain Plover is one of our misnamed birds. Typically not found in
mountains, it breeds in the high grassland plains east of the Rocky
Mountains from Montana to New Mexico and in western Texas and western
Oklahoma south to central Mexico. Often called the “bare ground plover”,
during breeding season it relies on habitat with >30% bare ground, often
utilizing highly disturbed sites. In Arizona, we are most likely to see
wintering birds from August to March. Read more about this threatened bird
at Arizona Bird's 'species of the month
<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/R3nxCrgWPrT607A4ZT7fNS4mO4q?<domain...>'
feature for April. Arizona Birds is the online journal of the Arizona Field
Ornithologists.
Date: 3/30/26 1:34 pm From: Ken and Karen McByrd-Bell (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Apache County Global Big Day
Calling All Birders!
We are looking for volunteers to participate in the 2026 Global Big Day in
Apache County on Saturday, May 9.
Apache County is home to a remarkable variety of birds, with 381 species
listed on eBird, 279 of which can be found during the month of May. The
area is currently significantly underbirded, and we need your help to
potentially beat our record of 139 total species. Whether you can bird for
ten minutes or ten hours, every checklist counts.
Notable hotspots include:
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Becker Lake & River Walk Trail
- Sheep Crossing
- Little Colorado River South Fork
- Luna Lake
- Wenima Wildlife Area
- Lyman Lake State Park
- West Baldy Trail
- Big Lake Recreation Area
Keep an eye out for notable species such as the Lewis's Woodpecker,
American Three-toed Woodpecker, Canada Jay, Pinyon Jay, Clark's Nutcracker,
American Dipper, Gray Catbird, Red Crossbill, Yellow-breasted Chat, and
Painted Redstart.
Date: 3/28/26 2:00 pm From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro River Birding Walk - Saturday Edition
Hi Birders,
Every year we try to include one Saturday walk in the spring to accommodate
those who can't make the typical Wednesday walks and this morning was that
walk. We had a group of 13 birders and managed to find 48 species.
Conditions were less extreme this morning than in recent walks as the
temperature at the start of the walk was warmer and stayed a bit cooler as
the walk progressed. All making for a pleasant walk, but seemed a bit
quieter than Wednesday's walk, bird-wise. Highlights included a singing
Scott's Oriole at the house, an infrequent sight along the river, as well
as our first Western Flycatcher and Ash-throated Flycatcher of the year.
Warbler activity was on the rise with lots of singing Lucy's, Northern
Yellows and our first Virginia's Warbler of the year. We finished the walk
with good views of the famous Western Screech-owl by the house.
This upcoming Wednesday, April 1 will be the first of the walks occurring
every Wednesday in April (and no, that's not an April Fools joke). It's
also time to start thinking about which location you would like to bird at
for the Big Morning Birding Challenge portion of the Celebrate the San
Pedro festival on Saturday April 25. Teams will be birding along the San
Pedro at Waters Road (Casa de San Pedro), Hereford Bridge, San Pedro House,
Escapule Wash, and Millville (Charleston Bridge). Further details can be
found on the Friends of the San Pedro River Facebook page.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks every Wednesday of
April. For the month of April, the walks leave at 7:00a from the BLM’s San
Pedro House south of State Route 90 just west of the San Pedro River. We
walk about 4km, and we are out for about three hours. Bring your own
binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Wednesday April 1, at 7:00a.
Date: 3/25/26 3:25 pm From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro River Birding Walk
Hi Birders,
This morning 22 birders split into two birding groups and collectively
found 58 species along the trails at San Pedro House. We are starting to
see new spring arrivals with our first of the year Gray Hawks, Zone-tailed
Hawk, Western Warbling Vireo, Wilson's Warbler, Lucy's Warblers, and
Black-chinned Hummingbird. These new year birds and the pleasant weather
made for a really nice walk this morning.
New arrivals will continue to pick up and this coincides with a really busy
schedule of birding walks coming up. First up, for those of you who can't
do Wednesdays, this Saturday 3/28 will be a great opportunity to join a
walk as we will be having a rare Saturday walk at 7:00AM at the San Pedro
House. A few days later, Wednesday April 1 begins our move to having walks
every Wednesday in April. Again, all of these start at 7:00AM at San Pedro
House. And remember to keep Saturday April 25 open for the Big Morning
Birding Challenge as part of the Celebrate the San Pedro festival. Details
are now on the Friends of the San Pedro River Facebook page.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks every Wednesday of
April. For the month of April, the walks leave at 7:00a from the BLM’s San
Pedro House south of State Route 90 just west of the San Pedro River. We
walk about 4km, and we are out for about three hours. Bring your own
binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Saturday, 28 March, at 7:00a.
Date: 3/22/26 9:55 am From: Nancy Obryan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Need help identifying bird call
I heard this bizz-bizz-buzz (buzz is lower) call this morning in Oro Valley, Pima County, AZ. It sounds familiar, but I can't place it. It doesn't match the likely warbler and sparrow calls that I listened to on Merlin.
Merlin didn't identify the call but recorded it. I have it attached to my eBird list at the end under passerine sp. The call is near the middle of the edited audio file.
Date: 3/20/26 9:46 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 20 March 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on March 20, 2026; the next update will be made on March 27. Email
your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/6TQ8Cl8WJltAGN8K1iGfrSzEkHt?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/YwNrCm7WKmIAXN3YpiOhzSRXsV5?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Little Blue Heron
#Red-shouldered Hawk
*NUTTING'S FLYCATCHER
#Rufous-backed Robin
#Brown Thrasher
#Tennessee Warbler
#Magnolia Warbler
#Louisiana Waterthrush
#Rufous-capped Warbler
BENSON area
A #LITTLE BLUE HERON was reported on McCommas Lane west of Curtis Flats Rd
on 3/14 (Theresa Mathis).
TUCSON area
A #RED-SHOULDERED HAWK was reported again at Arthur Pack Park on 3/16 (John
Williams).
A #MAGNOLIA WARBLER continued along the Santa Cruz River through 3/16
(Isaiah McCourt). It has been seen on the east side of Danny Lopez Park
along the river, north of the outflow from Agua Nueva WWTP. GPS:
(32.286839, -111.030545).
ARIVACA & BUENOS AIRES NWR
At Arivaca Lake a #RED-SHOULDERED HAWK continued this week (m.ob.).
PATAGONIA
A #RUFOUS-BACKED ROBIN continued along Harshaw Creek Rd near the Spirit
Tree Inn this week (m.ob.). GPS: (31.5223217, -110.7016439)
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/tOycCwn6XzHA63mQviRHQSJTbr9?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/AVjbCypWZBt0D5wW7InS4SxHsR5?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/U2_HCzqg1DixDoZBGi1TnS97F_v?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 3/17/26 12:22 pm From: \<bncthay...>\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Lopez Park (formerly Columbus Park) events March 18-22 (No Sightings)
At Lopez Park, the local model airplane club (Cholla Choppers) will be hosting vintage stunt championships beginning at 7:30 AM daily March 18-21(Wednesday-Saturday). Then on Sunday March 22 Tucson Model Boat Club is having races on Archer Lake (the small lake on west side of park) beginning at 8:30 AM
These events will likely interfere with birding (the boats are very noisy) so it would be best to arrive early and mainly concentrate on birding the east and north sides of the park
Date: 3/16/26 7:29 am From: JOHN GROVES (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RFI
Does anybody know anything about Magee Ranch, west of the big mine? What is land status? Is the road beyond the housing area private? Looks to be some pine forest in places.
Date: 3/13/26 9:19 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 13 March 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on March 13, 2026; the next update will be made on March 20. Email
your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/6hjBC1VkgOfkGQXL7ULfwSVD00F?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/C86dC2GljPcR3DQ0Ns1hXS5R1I6?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Red-shouldered Hawk
#Broad-winged Hawk
#Eastern Phoebe
#Winter Wren
#Pacific Wren
#Rufous-backed Robin
#Brown Thrasher
#Magnolia Warbler
#Louisiana Waterthrush
#Rufous-capped Warbler
#Golden-crowned Sparrow
#Purple Finch
ARIVACA & BUENOS AIRES NWR
At Arivaca Lake a #RED-SHOULDERED HAWK continued this week (m.ob.).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
A #BROAD-WINGED HAWK was reported at Desert Meadows Park on 3/11 (David
Griffin, Stephen Ley).
PATAGONIA
At Patagonia Lake State Park (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/p-9dC6Ypnlf1m4JZnfLuqS5Nowg?<domain...>) a #WINTER
WREN was reported again along the Birding Trail on 3/12 (Tommy
DeBardeleben), and an #EASTERN PHOEBE was photographed on 3/10 (Jim
Krakowski).
A #RUFOUS-BACKED ROBIN continued along Harshaw Creek Rd across from the
Spirit Tree Inn this week (m.ob.). GPS: (31.5223217, -110.7016439)
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
At the San Pedro House, a #LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH continued this week
(m.ob.). An #EASTERN PHOEBE was reported on 3/8 (Steve Svedeman) and was
photographed on 3/9 (James Moodie). A #GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW was
photographed on 3/11 (Henrey Deese).
In upper Ramsey Canyon, a #PACIFIC WREN was recorded on 3/11 (Theresa
Lawson) between the 1st and 2nd stream crossings after the overlook. It was
reported again on 3/13 (James Moodie).
TUCSON area
A #MAGNOLIA WARBLER continued along the Santa Cruz River through 3/12 and
3/13 (John Williams, Andrea Serrano). It has been seen on the east side of
Danny Lopez Park along the river, near the outflow from Agua Nueva WWTP.
GPS: (32.286839, -111.030545).
NOGALES area
#RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.). GPS
(31.417354, -111.196266)
BISBEE
A #PURPLE FINCH was photographed at a private residence in Bisbee on 3/8
and continued through 3/12 (Ken Lamberton).
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/c8gLC93vqouMqwjr5iGHRSqd-DW?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/8F22Cg7WAOImyzJ4LCJS2S4UPLU?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LVDZCjAWEjf3mx0Z7C2T0SmVSKQ?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 3/13/26 7:39 am From: p c (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Tubac Hawk Watch - Ron Morriss Park, Tubac, AZ 02/27/26
SEAZ: Tubac Hawk Watch - Ron Morriss Park, Tubac, AZ 02/27/26
Season 14: Episode 0215-0227 - “I Want to Take You Higher"
TL;DR (2/27)
Migrating Raptors
Turkey Vulture 8
Red-Tailed Hawk 6
Peregrine Falcon 1
Common Black Hawk 1
Other Raptors
Black Vulture
Cooper’s Hawk
In early February something stirred in the hearts of hibernating raptor fans. They crammed field guides, binoculars and scopes into cars, pickups and vans. Two hawk counters coaxed old vehicles south out of Washington State, one determined to see another season’s worth of Black Hawks, the other dubious of my claims of Black Hawks filling the sky over Tubac.
Their routes south this year would be through western California, avoiding massive snowfalls and avalanches in the Sierras.
Hawk Watch International prepositioned a 3 person site setup team at an undisclosed location in Tucson. The Tubac Nature Center’s Hawk Watch team continued their diligent preparations for the mid-March Hawk Watch Festival. In Vail, I sorted through a pile of folding chairs, filling the bed of my pickup with the least worn specimens. I ignored unfathomable reports of closed airspaces, Buck Rogers lasers and disappearing balloons in Texas and New Mexico.
All converged at Tubac’s Ron Morriss Park on February 15. The impatient counters arrived first, rigorously adhering to the standard 8:30 AM opening schedule. They began scanning a perfect hawk watching sky with scattered bright white clouds across a deep blue background.
The HWI setup crew rolled in at 9:30. Counting protocols were reviewed. A new tent was quickly assembled and fastened to the chained linked fence fortified against high winds and dust devils.
We continued scanning, documenting a sparse migration of Vultures and Redtails. Curious birders checked in to see if we were on site as part of their search for rarities along the Anza Trail. The park dogs sniffed the counter’s chairs for treats as their owners stopped to peruse our data board, finding only 10 year and long term averages .
Opening day ended with a Raven harassing a Golden Eagle and a Peregrine slipping north under our first Northern Harrier.
That was weeks ago, February is almost over. A week and a half of cold weather and occasional rain has suddenly turned ridiculously hot. Redtails again impressed us with a solid February migration. They are the surprise observation of our earlier start date.
But Black Hawks? Only rumors. The first was on February 20 with a report from the mysterious Transect 2 somewhere in Las Cienegas. Usually it’s Patagonia Lake that annoys me with the first sighting east of us. Additional solid reports of Black Hawks followed. A bird at Santa Gertrudis Lane should come our way. Nope. Last reported heading south west. A Green Valley observation - How? Then Phoenix - ugh.
Late yesterday I thought we had one. Counter #2 was tracking a Turkey Vulture north of the park. I turned to see his bird but was distracted by a lower, trailing dark raptor. We dropped the Vulture. The dark raptor refused to turn, refused to give us any definitive looks.
Today’s flight started shortly after 10am with a Peregrine hurrying north along the river trees. It was all Redtails and Turkey Vultures from then until 3 when Lead Counter #1, methodically scanning overhead and south, calmly mentioned there was an “interesting” bird approaching, I might want to take a look. Everyone strained to locate the bird. Scopes swung into action. I heard the words “dot” and “high” and focused my binoculars at infinity. Nothing but blue sky for me.
The veterinarian kindly offer a view through her scope. I fumbled and missed the bird. Miraculously Counter #2 managed a photo of the season’s and his first ever Common Black Hawk. I looked at the photo and understood. This veteran Black Hawk was maintaining the FAA prescribed 18,000ft minimum altitude, taking no chances of being confused for a party balloon or Border Patrol drone and being lasered out of the sky!
Configured for a high speed, high altitude glide north, it had its wings set back and tail clamped tight giving us a rarely observed silhouette.
I’ll have to wait another day my first live Black Hawk view of 2026.
Date: 3/12/26 9:58 am From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Magnolia Warbler still there, Tucson
This morning at 9:10, I got two good looks of the Magnolia Warbler at the stakeout hotspot near the WWTP inlet pipe. I was about 75 yards downstream on the east side of the river.
Additionally the continuing Summer Tanager appeared twice in the same stretch. Loads of Yellow-rumps.
Willows are full flower and leafing out.
Passing through Agua Nuevo on my way, over 20 Neotropical Cormorants flew over with at least 16 dropping into the north pond. Quite a sight for such a small pond.
Noted a first of the spring Dark-lored White Crown Sparrow
Date: 3/12/26 5:54 am From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro House Birding Walk
Hi Birders,
Wednesday morning 8 birders got up a little earlier for the spring 7:00AM
start time of San Pedro House Birding Walk. It was a cold start with
temperatures a lot closer to freezing than most of us would have
preferred. As the morning warmed we began to see signs that spring was
near, with singing Black-throated Sparrows along Del Valle Road, Great Blue
Herons on the nest and our first singing Northern Yellow Warblers in the
cottonwoods along the river. We finished the morning with 41 species, a
total we would expect to see growing in the next several walks as migrants
continue to arrive. Beyond the hints of spring, our highlight bird was
probably the wintering Louisiana Waterthrush which we hadn't seen for
several previous walks.
A reminder of upcoming walks and events, we will have one more Wednesday
walk this month on the 25th and then a bonus walk on Saturday the 28th. In
April we will be having walks every Wednesday and then on Saturday April
25, we will be having our Big Morning Birding Challenge as part of the
Celebrate the San Pedro festival. More details to come on that as we get
closer, but reserve that date so you can join us for the birding and
celebration.
The Friends of the San Pedro River lead birding walks the 2nd and 4th
Wednesday of March from the San Pedro House located south of Highway 90
just west of the San Pedro River. The walks last about three hours. During
March thru May the walks start at 7:00a. Bring your own binoculars, a hat
and water.
The next San Pedro House birding walk will be Wednesday, March 25 at 7:00a.
Date: 3/11/26 6:46 pm From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Arthur Pack-Snow Geese gone
Yesterday was the last day the three Snow Geese were seen at Arthur Pack Regional Park, NW Tucson. (Matt Griffiths)
The Wilson’s Phalarope that Matt Griffiths reported was still on the 13th hole pond at the golf course.
Northern Shovelers have dwindled to 17, down from over 200 in early February.
Yesterday with the front, there was an influx of feeding swallows. I estimated at least 60, the bulk of which were Violet Green, the rest Northern Rough-winged. It was quite a show as the occasional sunbeams lit them up against the dark cloud background.
