This well-known site along the Salt River is close to the city! Rob Bowker will lead us on a birding adventure at the first recreation site, Granite Reef, located where Power Road meets the Salt River and becomes Bush Highway. With spring migration in its early stages, we should see Bullock’s Orioles and Lucy’s Warblers. This trip is suggested for people getting started in birdwatching, as well as all skill levels.
We can expect a wide variety of ducks, along with wintering Yellow-rumped and Orange-crowned Warblers. Usually a variety of wrens (Rock, Cactus, House & Bewick’s) and sparrows (Song, Lincoln, Lark, White-crowned) makes an appearance, as well as resident Vermillion Flycatchers, Black and Say’s Phoebes and Phainopeplas. We should also see raptors (hawks, falcons and eagles).
The destination of this field trip is within Tonto National Forest and requires a parking pass for all cars. Acceptable passes range from an $8 day pass to a lifetime America the Beautiful pass. Meet up location and information on how to purchase passes will be emailed upon registration for this trip.
Bring: A snack, binoculars and a scope if you have one.
Limit: 8.
Difficulty: 2 – 3, some moderate terrain, several miles of walking.
Photo by Natasha Redding, Audubon Photography Awards
