Forest birding habitat

Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
ForestRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This forest and river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Common Merganser 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

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

4/4/2026Hidden Springs Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cinnamon Teal

164/11/2026

Gadwall

24/11/2026

American Wigeon

24/11/2026

Mallard

24/11/2026

Gambel's Quail

24/11/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

34/11/2026

White-winged Dove

14/11/2026

Mourning Dove

64/11/2026

Virginia Rail

14/11/2026

American Coot

34/11/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

24/11/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/11/2026

Common Black Hawk

14/11/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/11/2026

Northern Flicker

34/11/2026

American Kestrel

14/11/2026

Say's Phoebe

14/11/2026

Steller's Jay

24/11/2026

American Crow

24/11/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian for birding?
The best months to visit Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian?
Notable species at Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian include Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe. The area supports forest, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian?
Birding at Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian?
Gila National Forest - Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.