Birding in Willcox
Birding in Willcox, Arizona, offers an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts and novices alike. Nestled in the high desert of the Sulphur Springs Valley, Willcox is designated as an Important Birding Area by the National Audubon Society.
The region's diverse habitats, including the rich wetlands of Willcox Playa, attract a myriad of bird species, particularly during migration seasons. Here, birdwatchers can observe thousands of sandhill cranes, shorebirds, and waterfowl in a scenic setting of mountain vistas and expansive grasslands. For a deeper exploration of local birding spots, check out the rest of the page detailing various birding areas in Willcox. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, Willcox provides a memorable birdwatching adventure in one of Arizona's most biologically diverse areas.
Willcox Playa
Each winter season, October through February, more than 20,000 Sandhill Cranes flock to this playa – an ancient, closed bin lake bed. The area was formed from ancient sedimentary deposits of gravel, sand and silt, as well as dune sand and landslide masses. A birding festival held every January, "Wings Over Willcox," features food, field trips throughout Cochise County, educational seminars, and more. Allow 2 hours for your visit.
Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes remains a fantastic place to go birding during your visit to Willcox. A well established water feature along the migratory path of shorebirds and waterfowl, Twin Lakes has hosted over 300 species of birds. Recognized by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area, Twin Lakes is one birding spot you definitely want to visit.
Cochise County
Cochise County is one of the top places in the country to go birding. The sky islands and desert valleys combined with its proximity to the subtropics offers incredible species diversity. Any time of year is great to visit: Spring and Fall hosts many migrants through the county, summer has breeding species only found here in the U.S., and many species overwinter in the county.
Wings Over Willcox
Established in 1993, Wings Over Willcox is one of the oldest festivals in Arizona. This winter celebration of birds and nature brings together people from around the state, country, and world to share in the experience. Thousands of Sandhill Cranes, dozens of raptors on treetops and power poles, and numerous skulking sparrows are highlights of the event, but many other species are found in the valley and mountains during the festival, with well over 100 species seen by the end of the weekend.
Chiricahua National Monument
One of the top five birding destinations in the U.S. the Chiricahuas are known for their avian diversity. The Chiricahuas are part of the Sky Islands and cover a wide range of habitats from coniferous forest down to semi-desert grassland. It is home to over 200 bird species, including several southwest specialties such as the Elegant Trogon, Eared Quetzal, Mexican Chickadee, and Red-faced Warbler.