While fall migration is over in Flagstaff, an influx of grassland birds makes for exciting birding a couple thousand feet down the mountain. Large flocks of swirling Horned Larks visiting watering holes to drink bring to mind a miniature Serengeti, complete with Northern Harriers, Merlins, and Prairie Falcons waiting in ambush. This is also the perfect time of year to see late-migrating longspurs, and Chestnut-collared, Lapland, and Thick-billed are all possible visiting these tanks. Other likely species include meadowlarks, Canyon Towhee, Loggerhead Shrike, American Pipit, and White-crowned, Sagebrush, Brewer's, Vesper, and Savannah Sparrows. Harry Jones and Abbie Brozich will lead.
Date: Saturday November 22nd, 2025
Time: 8:00–11:00 AM
Meeting Point: I-40 exit 225; carpooling may be necessary as we will be driving 14 miles to Raymond Wildlife Area. We will stop at Babbitt, Lute Hart, and Casner Tanks as well as Raymond Wildlife Area, where restrooms are available.
What to Bring: Temperatures range from freezing at sunrise to much warmer in the late morning, so dressing in layers is recommended, particularly if the weather is windy. Bring binoculars, water, snacks, and a spotting scope if you have one. We will make scopes available to help view sometimes skittish grassland birds.
Questions: Harry hjones@birdpop.org
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This bird walk is hosted by the Northern Arizona Audubon Society, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting birds and the habitats they rely on across Northern Arizona. Everyone is welcome! If you enjoy our events, please consider supporting our work by becoming a member, making a donation, or signing up for our newsletter.
