Birding Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary Visit 1

It's not simple and straightforward to get there on a narrow dirt road and they tell you very forcefully NOT to ask the neighbors for directions. But I made it the first time and chose an easier route than the one Google Maps suggested for my return visits. It is not a car bird, but about half of the sanctuary is on smooth, easy to negotiate dirt paths, the rest is less smooth. I was able to manage it, but was glad to have the walking poles. Regardless it is all in a pretty compact space. There is a restroom on-site but down a few steps.

There are @20 Hummingbird feeders mixed in with seating and other feeders -- there is always something to watch but The star of the show here is the Hummingbirds...

Anna's Hummingbird - fairly common in Arizona

Black-chinned Hummingbird - This is just about the only place I saw these. Love the purple neck band!

Broad-billed Hummingbird - the most ubiquitous Hummingbird I saw, love it's orange bill and colorful plumage. When the light hits it just right -- Gorgeous!

Lucifer Hummingbird - This was a rare gem -- Purple gorget and curved bill. Everyone was looking for this one.

Rivoli's Hummingbird -- the biggest of the bunch and kind of a bully. Still its a beauty.

The Hummers are the star but the featured players are not slouches either.

Wilson's Warbler

Black-throated Gray Warbler - not my first sighting, but my first photos...

Hutton's Vireo in the water feature

Lazuli Bunting -- a better look & photo than the ones in Paradise

Female Lazuli Bunting

Scott's Oriole

Bullock's Oriole

Black-headed Grosbeak

Wild Turkeys take over the feeders

And there's more...

Pine Siskin

Lark Sparrow (of course)

Chipping Sparrow

Mexican Jay

Curved-bill Thrasher

Cassin's Kingbird

Ladderback Woodpecker

And Mammals too --

Arizona Gray Squirrel

Botta's Pocket Gopher