Arizona Monsoon Magic
Southeastern ARIZONA’S MONSOON MAGIC
Southeastern Arizona during the monsoon season is nothing short of magical. These late-summer rains bring new life, abundant flowers, and cooler temperatures to the desert and the Sky Island mountains. Many bird species have waited for these rains to start nesting, while others use this opportunity for a second breeding season. The unique and diverse habitats here just north of the Mexico border are home to numerous bird species that cannot be found anywhere else in the United States, making this a premier destination for any birder.
Join us as we scour the Sky Islands, their valleys, and the surrounding desert for the treasures this productive and beautiful season brings to southeastern Arizona.
Highlight and Target Birds
- Desert species, including Lesser Nighthawk, Gila Woodpecker, Chihuahuan Raven, Cactus Wren, Verdin, and Scott’s Oriole
- Uncommon resident species of desert scrub, such as Scaled Quail, Botteri’s Sparrow, Cassin’s Sparrow, and Varied Bunting
- Unique specialties of Arizona’s riparian zones, including Gray Hawk, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, and Thick-billed Kingbird.
- Denizens of wooded canyons deep in the Sky Islands such as Whiskered Screech-Owl, Elegant Trogon, Arizona Woodpecker, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, Mexican Jay, Bridled Titmouse, and Painted Redstart
- The highest hummingbird species richness of anywhere in the US, including the possibility of Blue-throated Mountain-gem, Lucifer Hummingbird, White-eared Hummingbird, Violet-crowned Hummingbird, Berylline Hummingbird, and many more
- High-elevation specialties of the Sky Islands such as Montezuma Quail, Zone-tailed Hawk, Greater Pewee, Mexican Chickadee, Yellow-eyed Junco, and Red-faced Warbler
KEY LOCATIONS
Chiricahua Mountains, Ramsey Canyon Preserve, Huachuca Mountains, Santa Rita Mountains, Saguaro National Park, Santa Catalina Mountains
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Exploring the immense diversity of habitats found in SE Arizona, full of unique birds, butterflies, and other wildlife found nowhere else in the country
- Visiting incredible feeder setups, allowing up-close views of many target and specialty species, often including rare or uncommon hummingbirds
More Details
Accommodations
Portal Peak Lodge (1 night), Ramsey Canyon Inn (3 nights), Santa Rita Lodge (1 night), La Quinta Tucson (2 nights)
Weather and climate
Expect hot weather on this tour, with expected highs around 100°F/38°C or above in the desert locations and 85°F/29°C at higher elevations. Nighttime temperatures may drop down to 60°F/16°C. Given that August is monsoon season in Arizona, torrential rain is possible.
Pacing/accessibility
Moderate: Fair amount of walking with frequent breaks to observe birds and occasional feeder sits. Some flat surfaces and minor elevation gains, uneven or rocky terrain possible, 1-3 hours on your feet, moderate periods away from vehicle.
Tour Details
Price: $2,729 per-person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: $320
Included: Accommodations, ground transportation, meals from dinner on first day to breakfast on last day, tour leader/guide and entrance fees.
Not Included: Airfare, personal items such as alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, gift shop, laundry, tips, etc. are not included.
From: Tucson (TUS)
Minimum Participants: 6
Participant Limit: 10
Activity Level: Moderate
Deposit: 30% per-person deposit is required to hold your spot on this tour (with your registration form).
Tour Leader: Ken Blankenship
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