Birding

Take the opportunity to explore the vast Chiricahuas in greater depth than ever before. ASV provides the perfect home base (a "nest" - so to speak) from which to explore all that the Chiricahua Mountains have to offer. Whether you’re a casual birder or a birding

or a birding expert you will be impressed with all that the

Chiricahuas have to offer. Whether you’re a casual birder or a birding expert, you will be impressed at the variety and abundance of bird species found in this region. Known for its uniqueness and diversity of biota, more than one half of all birds found in North America (500 or more species) are drawn to this area and the neighboring Chiricahua Mountains, either to nest or visit as they travel along the migratory flyway.

During a short journey up or down the Chiricahuas, which reach nearly 9,800 feet in elevation, you will encounter five of the six major Life Zones found on the continent. The bio-geographical convergence of distinct desert and mountain biota offers birders the opportunity to encounter rare species seldom seen in other parts of the United States.

Cave Creek Canyon is world-renowned for its spectacular scenery and excellent birding and is home to the famous South Fork Zoological and Botanical Area. A trip into the canyon will often yield sightings of Elegant Trogons, Mexican Chickadees, Red-faced Warblers, Olive Warblers, and Red Crossbills. A short journey over the mountain to the Chiricahua National Monument will reward birders with glimpses of Golden Eagles and Zone-tailed Hawks soaring high above the rocky spires, and Hepatic Tanagers, Juniper and Bridled titmice, Grace's Warblers, and Strickland's Woodpeckers perched throughout the lush forest of the canyon bottom.