One of the best places to go bird watching in Arizona is the Hassayampa River Preserve. It is home to many rare birds, and birds not usually found in the desert. It was donated to the Nature Conservancy by Dorothy and Norman Lykes in 1986, and has recently been increased in size to become a vast 660-acre oasis in the arid Sonoran Desert.
The Riparian Forest Is a Bird’s Paradise
The HRP is a rich, riparian forest made up of unusual tree species that flourish along the part of an underground river that briefly runs above ground. It boasts 280 kinds of birds including several rare species of hawks. The shady thickets and abundant water have provided a wonderful habitat for an interesting variety of birds, such as: warblers, wrens, flycatchers, and hummingbirds. In fact, Anna's and Rufous Hummingbirds come right to the feeders that hang outside the Visitor's Center.
The Shady Walking Trails Are a Birder’s Paradise
Hassayampa River Preserve is a lovely retreat from the harsh glare of the Arizona sun for people, as well. Close to the entrance is a tall stand of old palm trees that offer wonderful shade. The woods themselves are densely populated with rare cottonwood-willows, and mesquite trees, and are criss-crossed with several trails. These walking trails are well marked, and are each less than a mile in length.
A Haven for Rare Birds
A checklist of the birds at the HRP is available at the Visitor’s Center. Over 50 rare species of birds have been listed there at one time or another. Birds such as the Painted Bunting, and the Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird in North America. Another of the smaller birds, whose habitat is disappearing, is the Vaux’s Swift. This bird was once commonly seen is huge numbers rising and coming to roost again in colonies of old growth forests. Among the birds on the endangered species list, is the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. This bird will only nest in riparian forests.
A Home to Arizona Wildlife
Do not wander off the trails, smoke only in the parking areas, and do not bring pets are into the preserve. Birds are not the only Arizona wildlife that the HRP is known for: lizards, foxes, and javelina are also residents. Perhaps bird lovers would do well not to spend all of their time looking up!
Directions to the Preserve from Central Phoenix
The preserve is located about 3 miles southeast of Wickenburg, or about 60 miles northwest of Phoenix. For directions from central Phoenix: head north on the I-19 until you reach Highway 74. Turn left at the Highway 74 exit, and head toward Highway 60. Turn right onto Highway 60. Hassayampa River Preserve is located near milepost marker 114.
Admission to the preserve is $5 per person, and is free of charge to children under 12 years of age. Members of the Nature Conservancy get a discounted price of just $3 each. It is a good idea to call ahead of time as the preserve is closed for most holidays, and has very limited hours. From mid-May to mid-September, its operating hours are from 7 to 11 am, Friday - Sunday only. From mid-September to mid-May, it is open from 8 to 11 am, Wednesday - Sunday. For more information, call (928) 684-2772.
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