A large group of rocks in the middle of a desert

Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
Canyon
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

Entrance Fee

$8 adults (TNC members free)

Hours

Open daily, 8 AM - 5 PM (seasonal)

About This Location

Ramsey Canyon Preserve is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 242 species recorded on eBird. This canyon habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Rivoli's Hummingbird, and Broad-tailed Hummingbird 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

Flame-colored Tanager

Piranga bidentata

6/3/2026Miller Canyon Trail1 observed

American Goshawk

Astur atricapillus

6/3/2026Sunnyside Canyon1 observed

Rufous-winged Sparrow

Peucaea carpalis

6/3/2026Veterans Memorial Park, Sierra Vista1 observed

Lucifer Hummingbird

Calothorax lucifer

6/2/2026Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (closed Thursday morning)1 observed

Thick-billed Kingbird

Tyrannus crassirostris

6/2/2026Miller Canyon Trail1 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

6/1/20261000 Carr Canyon Road, Hereford, Arizona, US (31.434, -110.285)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

16/1/2026

Berylline Hummingbird

16/1/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

26/1/2026

Dusky-capped Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Hutton's Vireo

26/1/2026

Plumbeous Vireo

16/1/2026

Mexican Jay

26/1/2026

Bridled Titmouse

36/1/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

16/1/2026

American Robin

16/1/2026

Painted Redstart

26/1/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

26/1/2026

Inca Dove

16/1/2026

Rivoli's Hummingbird

26/1/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

16/1/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

16/1/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

26/1/2026

Broad-billed Hummingbird

56/1/2026

Violet-crowned Hummingbird

16/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for echoing calls of Canyon Wren and other canyon specialties.

  2. 2

    Check rocky ledges and cliff faces for nesting raptors.

  3. 3

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

  4. 4

    Bird activity peaks at dawn in desert habitats; arrive at first light for the best sightings.

  5. 5

    Hummingbird feeders at nature centers and lodges attract multiple species — visit during late summer for peak diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ramsey Canyon Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Ramsey Canyon Preserve for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Notable species at Ramsey Canyon Preserve include Wild Turkey, Rivoli's Hummingbird, Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Acorn Woodpecker, Arizona Woodpecker, Gambel's Quail, White-winged Dove, Lesser Goldfinch, Anna's Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Mourning Dove. The area supports canyon habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Birding at Ramsey Canyon Preserve is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
The entrance fee at Ramsey Canyon Preserve is $8 adults (TNC members free). Hours: Open daily, 8 AM - 5 PM (seasonal).
What amenities are available at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Ramsey Canyon Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.