This is the spot for hard to find thrashers! LeConte's, Crissal, and Bendire's can be found here. January and February are excellent months to visit. The thrashers are singing, Bell's and Sagebrush Sparrows are still overwintering, and the temperature is usually pleasant. Be prepared to spend some time here. You may find the birds that you are looking for immediately but usually it will take a little while. Walk silently and be on the look out for quick flashes of thrashers or sparrows running between the small bushes. Unless the birds are singing from perches looks will likely be fleeting, but with a little perseverance and luck you can get good looks. This is a sensitive habitat sparsely populated with highly desired birds. Please do not use playbacks or recordings and take trash out with you.
LeConte's Thrasher, Crissal Thrasher, Bendire's Thrasher, Bell's Sparrow, and Sagebrush Sparrow.
This location is currently being converted into a solar farm so it remains to be seen how much longer it will be a good birding spot.
This hotspot is on Arizona State Trust Land. An individual or family permit is required for access and available for purchase on the Arizona State Land Department website or at their office. Permits are inexpensive and a good way to let them know that their lands are important to birders. The terrain is fairly flat and firm. The dirt extension of West Baseline Road is loose, deep sand and not particularly easy to walk on, although it is a brush free way into the more sparsely vegetated habitat. Be mindful of where you walk. Rattlesnakes can always be present.
Entrance fee
Restrooms on site
Wheelchair accessible trail
Roadside viewing
Content from Jennifer Miller
Last updated February 23, 2024