Tucson Bird Alliance: Explore the Tanque Verde Wash

Birds love riparian (streamside) habitats with native plants, making this location, which is home to both, one of the “birdiest” spots on the east side of Tucson. We’ll explore about 2 miles along the wash, with good chances of seeing raptors, woodpeckers, busy songbirds, ground-hugging sparrows, and towhees. I’ll point out the Watershed Management Group’s efforts to remove invasive Arundo donax (giant reed) and the return of native species. Limited to 12 participants. Bring a sunhat, drinking water, and wear sturdy walking shoes. Trip difficulty: Moderate. Walking distance: 2 miles, much of it in a sandy wash with limited shade. No restrooms or drinking water available. Trip Leader: Karen Howe (karenhowepdx@gmail.com) Registration for Tucson Bird Alliance members is free. Non-members can join for a nonrefundable fee of $5. Driving directions: Take Tanque Verde Road east, about 8 miles past the intersection with the Catalina Highway. Turn right on Wentworth Road after the Forty Niners Country Club estates. Park on the north side of the road just before it crosses the wash. Please consider carpooling, as parking is limited.