Desert birding habitat

Benson STP

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Benson STP is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 251 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

4/14/2026Benson--San Pedro Golf Course-patio overlook1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle x Audubon's)

Setophaga coronata

4/13/2026Benson STP1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

4/11/2026Benson STP1 observed

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

4/11/2026Benson--San Pedro Golf Course-patio overlook1 observed

Steller's Jay

Cyanocitta stelleri

4/10/2026Paige Creek1 observed

Canyon x Abert's Towhee (hybrid)

Melozone fusca x aberti

4/9/2026Paige Creek1 observed

Abert's Towhee

Melozone aberti

4/9/2026Rincon Mountains--Miller Creek trailhead area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cinnamon Teal

24/16/2026

American Wigeon

184/16/2026

Mexican Duck

24/16/2026

Redhead

14/16/2026

Ruddy Duck

254/16/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

14/16/2026

White-winged Dove

14/16/2026

American Coot

84/16/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/16/2026

White-faced Ibis

74/16/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/16/2026

Swainson's Hawk

14/16/2026

Gila Woodpecker

14/16/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

14/16/2026

Chihuahuan Raven

24/16/2026

European Starling

4/16/2026

Lark Sparrow

24/16/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

24/16/2026

Savannah Sparrow

24/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Benson STP for birding?
The best months to visit Benson STP for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Benson STP?
Notable species at Benson STP include Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mexican Duck, Canvasback. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Benson STP?
Birding at Benson STP is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Benson STP?
Benson STP offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.