Join leader Rich Bailowitz (co-author of several butterfly books as well as Field Guide to the Damselflies and Dragonflies of Arizona and Sonora) as we search for some of the butterflies and dragonflies of the Sierra Vista area.

The day will include stops in Escapule Wash (near the San Pedro River) and in Huachuca Canyon, at various elevations between 4,500 and 6,500ft. A net will be used to catch and release insects for up-close species identification. This trip is best suited for butterfly and dragonfly enthusiasts of all skill levels. Bring your own lunch, as well as hat, sun protection, and wear trail shoes.

Hiking Difficulty: 3 moderate. Guide Rich Bailowitz.

PLEASE NOTE: This trip enters Fort Huachuca and a visitor’s pass is required. If you are eligible, please obtain your pass before the trip as there may not be time to get one on the day. See Visitor access

​Meeting place: The south-east entrance of The Mall at Sierra Vista, 2200 El Mercado Loop, Sierra Vista. Turn west onto Calle Mercancia from Highway 92, by the Wells Fargo bank, and the entrance is straight ahead. Map link

Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival is Arizona’s oldest birding festival. Since 1991 we’ve been offering small group trips through monsoons and droughts … and even a global pandemic. 

​The Southwest Wings Spring Fling will run from Wednesday May 6 to Saturday May 9, 2026.