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

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/12/2026Gila NF--Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian1 observed

Hooded Warbler

Setophaga citrina

7/12/2026Gila NF--Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian1 observed

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

7/9/2026Gila NF--Apache Creek Campground and Tularosa River riparian1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

57/12/2026

Mexican Duck

17/12/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/12/2026

Mourning Dove

107/12/2026

Rufous Hummingbird

37/12/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

27/12/2026

Virginia Rail

37/12/2026

Sora

17/12/2026

American Coot

97/12/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/12/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/12/2026

White-faced Ibis

17/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/12/2026

Cooper's Hawk

17/12/2026

American Kestrel

17/12/2026

Peregrine Falcon

17/12/2026

Black Phoebe

17/12/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

37/12/2026

Plumbeous Vireo

17/12/2026

American Crow

37/12/2026

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.