Chiricahua National Monument entrance sign |
Overview
Chiricahua National Monument is located on the northwest side of the Chiricahua Mountains. The birding here isn't as good as places farther southeast (e.g., Cave Creek Area), but it can be good. Near the park entrance, look for grassland sparrows, Loggerhead Shrike, and hawks. In the canyons and at higher elevations, look for Mexican Jays, Dark-eyed Juncos, warblers, and other birds typical of the area.
During May and June 2011, the Horseshoe Two Fire burned almost 350 square-miles in the Chiricahua Mountains, including much of the park. Considerable birding habitat remained, and the shrubby vegetation is regrowing. Birds have returned too.
Link to the NPS website for information on visiting and camping in the National Monument. Link to Chiricahua Mountains Area Map or National Monument Map. |