Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (closed Thursday morning; formerly Ash Canyon B&B)

Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (closed Thursday morning; formerly Ash Canyon B&B)

5255 East Spring Road Hereford, Arizona 85615

Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary website

Tips for Birding

There are only 4-5 parking spaces, but this site is worth it so try again later if the parking is full. This is a "sit and watch" location. Especially when it comes to the Montezuma Quail, sitting quietly will give you the best chance to see them. Surprise birds pop up all the time here!

Birds of Interest

Home to many of the southwest's most sought-after avian specialties, this may be the most accessible place in the country to see a Lucifer Hummingbird. A breeding season resident, visit by October for the best chance to see them. Montezuma Quail and Northern Goshawks can also be seen on occasion. 

About this Location

The former residence of the late Mary Jo Ballator was purchased by the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory in November 2019, thanks to an exceptionally generous donation from Dr. Joseph Mario Molina and Therese Flynn-Molina. The site includes feeders for hummingbirds (most active March-September) and other species (year-round), naturalistic water features, a pollinator garden, and a photo blind available by reservation. 

Access Advisory: The site has limited parking for normal passenger vehicles ONLY. No RVs, trailers, or buses over 20 feet long are allowed, there is no overflow parking, and parking is prohibited along Spring Road and Turkey Track Road. The parking lot may fill up during peak birding times in April, May, and August. If you arrive to find all parking spaces filled, you must leave and return later. Visitors are advised to carry precise directions to the site to avoid getting lost. Please do not approach neighbors for directions or use private driveways as turnarounds. The road in is unpaved. 

Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary depends on the generosity of the birding community. There is a suggested donation for all guests ($10 as of 2022). Annual passes may be available. Contact the Southeastern Arizona Birding Observatory for more details. 

Features

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary website and Jennifer Miller

Last updated January 30, 2023