This trip sets out in search of some of the avian treasures (at the very northern edge of their ranges here) for which southeast Arizona is renowned. The main event for the day is the chance to bird the rugged and remote California Gulch in search of Five-striped Sparrow, Varied Bunting, Gray Hawk, and Montezuma Quail as well as other species from south of the border. California Gulch is set in the stunningly beautiful Atascosa Highlands and requires a full two hours in the van each way to get to this spot, including some rough roads. Depending on recent reports, we will try to maximize our time in this area by birding other nearby sites such as Pena Blanca Lake or Arivaca to look for other SE Arizona specialties. Note: this trip may include a steep mile-long (round trip) trek into the canyon or we may be able to simply take a short walk on a rocky jeep track. Access conditions are variable and can be impacted by the monsoon rains. Lunch included. Limited to 16 participants.

Difficulty: Hard (Steeper slopes or more rocky/rooted trails. Drive time to location approximately 2 hours on some rough road.)

—————————————————————————————————–

Part of the Southeast Arizona Birding Festival, August 9 – 13.

Festival Headquarters: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tucson – Reid Park. All van trips depart from here.

“Drive Yourself” field trips will meet on-site at birding locations and you will received detailed directions.

There is a $30 non-refundable registration fee for all festival participants that are attending fee based activities: field trips, workshops, and evening programs. In addition, each activity previously mentioned has its own associated fees.