Petrified Forest National Park

Arizona · Southwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Forest

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Petrified Forest National Park is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Scaled Quail, Common Raven, and Horned Lark among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Scaled Quail Common Raven Horned Lark

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

4/7/2026Petrified Forest NP--Visitor Center1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Pink-sided)

Junco hyemalis

4/7/2026Petrified Forest NP--Visitor Center1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Loggerhead Shrike

14/9/2026

Common Raven

104/9/2026

Horned Lark

84/9/2026

Rock Wren

34/9/2026

Northern Mockingbird

14/9/2026

House Finch

34/9/2026

Black-throated Sparrow

44/9/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

24/9/2026

Chihuahuan Meadowlark

14/9/2026

Say's Phoebe

34/8/2026

House Sparrow

14/5/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

14/4/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

14/4/2026

Brewer's Sparrow

14/4/2026

Western Meadowlark

14/4/2026

Birding Tips

1
Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.
2
Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.
3
Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Amenities

Parking

Restrooms

Trails

Visitor Center

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Chiricahua Mountains canyon and top US site for rare Mexican mountain species.

Ramsey Canyon Preserve

The Hummingbird Capital of the US with up to 15 species in the Huachuca Mountains.

Arizona Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Arizona →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Petrified Forest National Park for birding?▼

The best months to visit Petrified Forest National Park for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.

What birds can I see at Petrified Forest National Park?▼

Notable species at Petrified Forest National Park include Scaled Quail, Common Raven, Horned Lark. The area supports forest habitats.

How difficult is birding at Petrified Forest National Park?▼

Birding at Petrified Forest National Park is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Petrified Forest National Park?▼

Petrified Forest National Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.