Montezuma Quail
One of the most beautiful, elusive and sought-after species in Arizona.
The "sky island" mountain ranges of Southeastern Arizona beckon birders any time of year. But if you’ve only birded here in the winter or spring, the monsoon season offers some very special birds. Dubbed Arizona’s “second spring”, monsoon season is lush, green, and birdy! Many species are only present and are much more common in the summer, including Sulfur-bellied Flycatcher, Rose-throated Becard, Thick-billed Kingbird, and Varied Bunting. Several species of hummingbirds - especially Berylline, Lucifer and White-eared - are annual each summer.
Then, of course, there are the regulars! Greater Roadrunners darting among the cacti, Vermillion Flycatchers hawking insects, while Coppery-tailed Trogon and Red-faced Warbler, frequent the riparian woods nestled in the canyons. Expect the unexpected in Southeast Arizona: Flame-colored Tanager, Plain-capped Starthroat, Tufted Flycatcher, and Rufous-capped Warbler are all possibilities.
Dates: August 3rd – August 11, 2027 (8 nights/9 days)
Cost: $5,950 standard price. $750 per-person discount for doubles. $500 deposit due upon registration.
What’s included:
▪ Eight nights of lodging during the trip.
▪ Transportation in a 12-passenger van.
▪ Breakfasts, lunches (many in the field), and dinners.
▪ Expert and knowledgeable naturalist guides, Sam & Chip Darmstadt.
▪ Any entrance fees, park admissions, and donations to private feeder set-ups.
What’s not included:
▪ Airfare to/from Tucson.
▪ Meals in airports and any alcoholic beverages.
▪ Tips/gratuities.
▪ Extras in hotels (e.g., room service, laundry, etc.).
▪ Trip Insurance (highly recommended).
Accommodations and physical requirements:
▪ All of the lodging is in standard hotels and lodges.
▪ Temperatures can reach 100, but are cooler in the mountains and after rains. We will build in downtime during the hot afternoons as weather conditions require.
▪ While no strenuous hiking is expected, we will spend plenty of time walking on park trails. Total walking for a day may total three or more miles.