Lodging Birding Star Gazing Trail Rides Hiking Rates Weather Directions E-Mail Home HCR 1 Box 385 Turkey Creek Rd. The combination of mild climate, proximity to the Mexican border and diverse habitats make southeastern Arizona a major hotspot for rare and unusual species of birds. The best time to see tropical species such as hummingbirds, trogans, warblers and flycatchers is from mid-April through September. Spring migration peaks between late April and early May, as tens of thousands of colorful songbirds make their way north.
Late summer is an excellent time to observe both resident and migrant birds.
Winter birding has its own special appeal. Ramsey Canyon Christmas Bird Count regularly has one of the highest inland species totals in the U.S. with over 150 species. Lowland sites such as the San Pedro River and Sulphur Springs Valley support the greatest variety of wintering birds. Eerie spires of rhyolite are the park's biggest attraction, but wildlife is also abundant here. Watch for Zone-tailed Hawks soaring high above the formations and Hepatic Tanagers in the lush forests of the canyon bottoms.