This field trip begins south of Camp Verde where we will turn off of Route 260 and onto the open grasslands of Wingfield Mesa. After birding here for sparrows, meadowlarks and other open-area-loving avian life we will descend off the Mesa to Rancho Tres Brisas. Rancho Tres Brisas is a family run working cattle ranch made up of over 100 acres and borders the Verde River for ¼ mile. We will bird a variety of habitats, including desert scrub, pasture, cattle ponds and the riparian area of the Verde River. After birding, we will be treated to a lunch featuring beef from Tres Brisas Beef, as well as a vegetarian choice. During or after lunch Jeni O’Callaghan, President of the Friends of Verde River and owner of Rancho Tres Brisas, will give us a talk on the Ranch’s history and the present day’s efforts to raise cattle and protect the Verde River. Jeni’s family has worked the land since her grandfather purchased it in 1963.

On this trip there will be up to two miles of walking on mostly level, but sometimes rough ground. Restrooms will be available when we get to the Ranch. As with most field trips, it will warm up by mid-morning, please have what will keep you comfortable: Water, hat, sunscreen, etc.

Rating: 3

Transportation: Vans

Meal: Yes

Cost: $115

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.