Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Guided Bird Walk–Christmas Bird Count

Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen for resident and migrant species within the diverse desert riparian habitat of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Today is the Hassayampa River Christmas Bird Count (CBC), an annual winter census of birds within a 15-mile diameter count circle. This event sponsored by the National Audubon Society is the nation’s oldest citizen science program that birders or bird enthusiasts of any skill level can participate in! This bird walk will be one of multiple teams covering the various trails at the Preserve. Along the way, we will discuss how to identify birds by sight and sound, and about the behavioral and ecological traits that make them unique. Some binoculars are available to borrow at the Visitor Center. Please dress in layers (winter low temperatures can start out in the mid-20s to low 30s F, but warm up into the 50s-70s!), wear sturdy footwear and sun protection, and carry ample water and snacks for yourself. Opportunities to go birding longer that day will also be available. *If you are interested in participating on one of the other teams for the Hassayampa River Christmas Bird Count, which includes off-trail areas of the Preserve, the surrounding Wickenburg area and desert foothills, and Box Canyon, please email Ranger Eric at eric.hough@maricopa.gov. MEETING LOCATION: Visitor Center Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V5BnHQrAfszGU9ru6 Limit 10 participants. To register, please call the Visitor Center at 602-506-2930 ext. 9 with your name, phone number, and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Visitor Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on Thursday, 12/18.