Bearizona is home to many rescue North American river otters. Come learn about these amazing species and how Bearizona uses a scientific approach to their behavior, welfare, and nutrition.

Explore the playful world of river otters in Friends of the Verde River’s newest treasure “Otter Spotter”, read by native Arizonan and beloved children’s book author, Phoebe Fox. With fun rhymes and beautiful watercolor art, you will laugh, learn, and discover how these amazing animals live, play, and thrive in the Verde Valley.

Fun Fact: Illustrations are by Phoebe’s father-in-law, former Phoenix Suns Center, Jim Fox!

“On the Verde River ” & “Otter Spotter” will be on sale at the store ramada on the festival grounds.

Part of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival

Join us 100 miles North of Phoenix in North Central Arizona’s Verde Valley for the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Experience birding during the peak Spring migration season at Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the banks of the Verde River. Close proximity to the Verde, Oak Creek, Sycamore Creek, and other perennial waters offers a wide selection of guided tours, hikes, and workshops in one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats.

Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of birds and the unique habitat that makes this region special. The festival, presented each April by Friends of the Verde River, is a purpose-driven community benefit organization and 501(c) 3 non-profit working to preserve one of the last perennial flowing rivers in the American Southwest.

Festival site is at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.