Wetland birding habitat

Cibola National Wildlife Refuge

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Cibola National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

Loading map...

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

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

6/2/2026Walter's Camp2 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/2/2026Three Finger Lake2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Gambel's Quail

5/27/2026

White-winged Dove

45/27/2026

Mourning Dove

5/27/2026

Greater Roadrunner

15/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/27/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

15/27/2026

American Kestrel

15/27/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

25/27/2026

Western Kingbird

45/27/2026

Verdin

15/27/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/27/2026

House Finch

15/27/2026

Abert's Towhee

25/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

5/27/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

35/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cibola National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Cibola National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Cibola National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Cibola National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cibola National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Cibola National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cibola National Wildlife Refuge?
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.