Lake birding habitat

Upper Lake Mary

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Upper Lake Mary is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts American Wigeon, Mallard, and Northern Pintail 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

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/18/2026The Arboretum at Flagstaff1 observed

White-crowned Sparrow (Dark-lored)

Zonotrichia leucophrys

7/17/20263100 W. Shannon Dr.1 observed

Mexican Duck

Anas diazi

7/16/2026Rio de Flag--Picture Canyon2 observed

Bronzed Cowbird

Molothrus aeneus

7/15/20268840 Loghouse Road, Flagstaff, Arizona, US (35.267, -111.492)1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

7/15/2026Kachina Wetlands2 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

7/11/2026Mormon Lake Rd.--Dairy Spring1 observed

American Barn Owl

Tyto furcata

7/10/2026San Francisco Wash1 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

7/10/2026Kachina Wetlands2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

87/17/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/17/2026

Osprey

17/17/2026

Steller's Jay

17/17/2026

American Crow

27/17/2026

Violet-green Swallow

37/17/2026

Bald Eagle

17/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Upper Lake Mary for birding?
The best months to visit Upper Lake Mary for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Upper Lake Mary?
Notable species at Upper Lake Mary include American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Upper Lake Mary?
Birding at Upper Lake Mary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Upper Lake Mary?
Upper Lake Mary offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.