Welcome to Old West County: Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail

Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail

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about these locations:

The New Mexico Birding Trail is finally a reality. We have chosen more than 40 sites of the most attractive birding locations throughout southwest New Mexico. A guide has been created that includes maps, birding tips, site descriptions and contact information that should help you easily identify birding sites.

This project was created by the efforts of New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, New Mexico Audubon Society and Council, New Mexico Department of Tourism, U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Forest Service and the New Mexico Rural Economic Development Through Tourism.

This is a great way for people to get out and enjoy New Mexico's diversity and abundance of bird life as well as learn about the locations for various wildlife activities.

Trail Tips

When birding always remember to:

IMPORTANT: Do not enter private property without the owner's permission. Follow all laws, rules and regulations governing the use of roads and public areas.
Carry sunscreen, water, bug repellant, a blanket, a hat and shovel with you at all times. Take a first aid kit, tool kit and spare tire in your car.
Make sure you have enough gasoline to get to desired location and back.
Make sure that you are traveling to the site at the desired season in order to see the desired birds.
Make reservations in advance for any "by-appointment only" sites.

Remember the weather:

New Mexico has diverse seasons. The summer rainstorms, strong spring winds and winter snowstorms can come with bad timing. In the warm sun remember to drink plenty of water, wear a hat and use sunscreen to prevent severe sunburn. Rainstorms and snowfall can sometimes make highways and roads slick and difficult to navigate. During winter snowstorms, chains are recommended. Dress appropriately and be prepared for inclement weather.

Safety & well being:

New Mexico's altitude is relatively high and until you acclimate, you may suffer from shortness of breath or tire easily.
Insects & Snakes: A bug repellant may prevent bites by mosquitoes and gnats. The majority of snakes that you may come in contact with will be nonpoisonous.
Bears & Lions: Black bears and mountain lions are fairly common in many of the mountain ranges, however, it is unlikely that you will encounter them. If you do come in contact with them, do not run, stand upright, wave your arms in the air slowly and back away slowly. Do not attempt to touch or feed these animals.