Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts American Wigeon, Mallard, and Gambel's Quail 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

Pyrrhuloxia

Cardinalis sinuatus

3/5/2026Papago Park1 observed

Lewis's Woodpecker

Melanerpes lewis

3/5/2026Encanto Park1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

3/5/2026Higley and Ocotillo Rds. ponds1 observed

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

3/5/2026Higley and Ocotillo Rds. ponds1 observed

Eurasian x African Collared-Dove (hybrid)

Streptopelia decaocto x roseogrisea

3/4/2026Riparian Preserve at Gilbert Water Ranch1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

3/4/2026Riparian Preserve at Gilbert Water Ranch1 observed

Zone-tailed Hawk

Buteo albonotatus

3/3/2026McCormick Ranch--Camelback Lake (Chart House)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Wigeon

13/1/2026

Mallard

33/1/2026

Gambel's Quail

43/1/2026

Rock Pigeon

13/1/2026

Mourning Dove

33/1/2026

Greater Roadrunner

13/1/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

23/1/2026

Snowy Egret

13/1/2026

Turkey Vulture

13/1/2026

Gila Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

13/1/2026

Verdin

33/1/2026

Curve-billed Thrasher

13/1/2026

Northern Mockingbird

23/1/2026

House Sparrow

23/1/2026

House Finch

33/1/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

23/1/2026

Abert's Towhee

23/1/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

33/1/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

22/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve?
Notable species at Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve include American Wigeon, Mallard, Gambel's Quail, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve?
Birding at Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve?
Neely Ranch Riparian Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.