Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge

Arizona · Southwest

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
CanyonWetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This canyon and wetland habitat attracts Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Common Raven, and Bushtit among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Mallard

Anas platyrhynchos

3/5/2026Lagunas de Los Campitos3 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/3/2026Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area2 observed

Bendire's Thrasher

Toxostoma bendirei

3/3/2026East Geronimo Trail, Douglas, Arizona, US (31.349, -109.393)2 observed

Rusty Blackbird

Euphagus carolinus

3/3/2026Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area1 observed

Common Poorwill

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii

3/3/2026Rucker Canyon--Cypress CG1 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

3/2/2026East 9th Street and Bonita, Douglas, Arizona, US12 observed

Cassin's Kingbird

Tyrannus vociferans

3/2/2026Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for echoing calls of Canyon Wren and other canyon specialties.

  2. 2

    Check rocky ledges and cliff faces for nesting raptors.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge include Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Common Raven, Bushtit, Rock Wren, Cactus Wren. The area supports canyon, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge?
Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.