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Peach-faced Lovebirds Prosper in Arizona

Editor — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:27:26 +0000

There is something so enjoyable – so soothing – about watching a wild-bird frolic in your backyard. That pleasure increases somewhat when the bird in question is a peach-faced lovebird. These delightful little birds are not only a pleasure to look at, but their curious antics make for enjoyable bird watching.

The peach-faced lovebird is an attractive little bird with its peach-colored facial plumage, green body feathers and bright blue tail feathers. The small bill, grey around the eye and diminutive size – a body length of roughly 17 or 18cms – round up the picture and give it a very cute appearance. This is the creature that has gotten many bird lovers in Arizona out into their gardens where they can enjoy watching them at their leisure. Why is that unusual? Because the peach-faced lovebird hails all the way from south-west Africa where it thrives in natural arid habitats such as the Namib Desert. How then, did these non-migratory birds get all the way from Africa to Arizona in the US where they are now commonly spotted splashing around in backyard garden fountains or snacking at bird feeders? Well, it seems they had a little help.

According to Greg Clark, the creator of the peach-faced lovebird spotting website and a coordinator for the nonprofit group called Wild at Heart, the wild bird populations of this species probably originate from large aviaries that existed in the area a few years back. The birds bred well in captivity and before long, large flocks of them were flourishing. The aviary owners decided to turn the birds loose, creating a strong and large enough population for them to continue to reproduce well in the wild. However the true key to success of these birds is the fact that they were released in an environment which suited them down to the bone. The hot, dry and dusty arid conditions found in Arizona were similar to the conditions they enjoyed back home and so the peach-faced lovebirds thrived where other birds, such as parakeets and cockatiels, have failed. The planting of a number of exotic plants in the area and the absence of natural predators has further contributed to their success. Normally the existence of such a species would be problematic, but it seems that the peach-faced lovebird isn’t causing too many problems in its new habitat. In fact, its beautiful plumage and delightful behavior is catching the attention of non-bird watchers, drawing even more people to the wonders of nature. So, while authorities are keeping a strict eye on the little bird, it seems that for now, they are content to let them stay in their new home.

Birding in Madera Canyon, Arizona

Editor — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:58:46 +0000

The beautiful Madera Canyon, located in the Santa Rita Mountain Range in southern Arizona, is considered by many to be a bird-watcher’s paradise. The terrain on the approach to Madera Canyon is grasslands, which gives way to mountain forest. The area is renowned for its abundance of bird species and the relatively easy access to watch and photograph birds that are generally not seen elsewhere.

In the grassland area it is not uncommon to see the occasional roadrunner as well as several species of hawks. Western and Cassin’s Kingbirds have also been spotted. Approaching from north to south, the first recommended bird-watching area is the Proctor Road Trail which follows a creek bed with plentiful bird life, especially when it has rained and there is water in the creek.

The very best area for bird-watching and photographing is the Santa Rita Lodge, with a wide variety of species attracted to the platform feeders set up in various areas. All year round residents include the Mexican Jay, Acorn Woodpecker and White-breasted Nuthatch, with an Elf Owl as a long-time permanent resident of a utility pole near the highest cabin. Birds that are prevalent in summer include Black-headed Grosbeak, Bridled Titmouse, Lesser Goldfinch and Scott’s Oriole. More than twelve species of Hummingbirds have been sighted, with the Black-chinned, Broad-billed and Magnificent Hummingbirds being the most abundant. In the winter months the Dark-eyed Junco and Yellow-eyed Junco, as well as Cassin’s Finch take up residence in the area.

Regular bird-watchers in the area recommend getting an early start, especially for photography. The sun arrives in Madera Canyon about an hour after daybreak and this is the hour that affords the best photography opportunities. If you miss this hour, however, even in full sunlight there are shaded areas which are good bird-watching vantage points. It should also be noted that the sun leaves the canyon an hour or two before sunset.

Visitors to Madera Canyon are advised to bring their own food and refreshments and plenty of drinking water. Also, bearing in mind that exposure to the Arizona sunshine can quickly result in sunburn, it is recommended to use a minimum SPF30 sunscreen at all times. Sunglasses and a sunhat are also recommended. Bird-watchers who have visited Madera Canyon generally agree that a visit to this popular birding area is a very rewarding experience.

Arizona Snowbirds

Editor — Mon, 25 Dec 2006 12:54:23 +0000

Winter weather’s closing in on many North American towns. Most migrant birds have finished their move south, escaping the cold. Why not follow them? A winter trip to SE Arizona is a great cure for a bird-watcher’s winter blues.

SE Arizona can entertain both casual bird-enthusiasts and hard-core birders. Both types often start their trip in Tucson. This city is surrounded by Saguaro National Park. Year-round bird species fill this desert land, including hummingbirds, wrens, quail, verdins, phainopepla, and woodpeckers.

Try the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, in the Park’s western half. The museum’s hawk shows and aviaries (including one buzzing with hummingbirds) can provide a great introduction to Arizona’s rich birdlife. The outdoor grounds also attract wild birds.

Ready for more adventure? Head for the sky islands, isolated mountain ranges around Tucson. These ranges’ cool, forested slopes attract many birds normally found in Mexico. Drive to the summit of Mt Lemmon, 9000 feet, right by Tucson. Or hike the trails of the Huachucas, Santa Ritas, or Chiricahuas, in search of birds like the Elegant Trogon, Bridled Titmouse, and Mexican Chickadee. Many B&B’s and lodges in the area cater to birders, and have busy hummingbird feeders nearby.

Many visitors are surprised how cold it sometimes gets in these sky islands. But no need to worry that snow will ruin your trip. If you’re visiting during a cold snap, try SE Arizona’s rich lowland preserves, such as the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek preserve or the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. There are plenty of birds here to help beat those winter birding blues!