Kingston-Hillsboro is Site 32 on the Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail.

Approaching Hillsboro from the east on NM-152, stop at the public park on the north side of the road, just west of the Percha Creek bridge. First, check out the park area itself, then walk east to the bridge and riparian area; be sure to observe all private property signs. Coming back to the park, pick up a town walking tour guide, which is a handy reference for adding “Details” to your individual species sightings.

Though the tree-lined shoulder of NM-152 (with at least one street sign labeling it 43 Years Boulevard) generally offers adequate parking in town, you can leave your vehicle at the park and wander west and south. The large sycamores and cottonwoods and the planted landscape vegetation and home feeders throughout Hillsboro attract a variety of birds. Be sure to scan the old mistletoe-covered cottonwoods in front of the Crews House (across 2nd Street from the Post Office) for Phainopepla.

Percha Creek bows north around the town, with NM-152 having another bridge on the west end of Hillsboro. The likelihood of water is greater under the bridge east of town, but it is still worthwhile to investigate the west bridge area.

Finally, be aware that Kingston Campground, 9 miles west on N-152, is also a hotspot; it is appropriate to separate Kingston and Hillsboro hotspot listings.