Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
Canyon
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

Entrance Fee

$8 adults (TNC members free)

Hours

Open daily, 8 AM - 5 PM (seasonal)

About This Location

Ramsey Canyon Preserve is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 242 species recorded on eBird. This canyon habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Rivoli's Hummingbird, and Broad-tailed Hummingbird 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

Elf Owl

Micrathene whitneyi

3/5/2026Battiste's Bird Garden2 observed

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

3/5/2026Battiste's Bird Garden1 observed

Scott's Oriole

Icterus parisorum

3/5/2026Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (closed Thursday morning)1 observed

Violet-crowned Hummingbird

Ramosomyia violiceps

3/5/2026Ramsey Canyon Preserve (formerly Mile Hi Ranch)1 observed

Cassin's Kingbird

Tyrannus vociferans

3/5/2026Sierra Vista EOP1 observed

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

3/5/2026Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (closed Thursday morning)1 observed

Rufous-winged Sparrow

Peucaea carpalis

3/5/2026Veterans Memorial Park, Sierra Vista1 observed

Cassin's Finch

Haemorhous cassinii

3/5/2026San Pedro RNCA--Escapule Wash1 observed

Common Poorwill

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii

3/4/2026Ramsey Canyon Preserve (formerly Mile Hi Ranch)1 observed

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

3/4/2026San Pedro RNCA--San Pedro House and trails1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Hutton's Vireo

13/5/2026

Violet-green Swallow

33/5/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

13/5/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

33/5/2026

Painted Redstart

13/5/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

23/5/2026

Bridled Titmouse

23/5/2026

Bushtit

23/5/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

13/5/2026

Bewick's Wren

13/5/2026

House Finch

13/5/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

33/5/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

13/5/2026

White-throated Swift

13/5/2026

Broad-billed Hummingbird

13/5/2026

Mexican Jay

43/5/2026

Common Raven

13/5/2026

Verdin

13/5/2026

Northern House Wren

13/5/2026

Hermit Thrush

13/5/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Bird activity peaks at dawn in desert habitats; arrive at first light for the best sightings.

  5. 5

    Hummingbird feeders at nature centers and lodges attract multiple species — visit during late summer for peak diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ramsey Canyon Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Ramsey Canyon Preserve for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Notable species at Ramsey Canyon Preserve include Wild Turkey, Rivoli's Hummingbird, Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Acorn Woodpecker, Arizona Woodpecker, Gambel's Quail, White-winged Dove, Lesser Goldfinch, Anna's Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Mourning Dove. The area supports canyon habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Birding at Ramsey Canyon Preserve is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
The entrance fee at Ramsey Canyon Preserve is $8 adults (TNC members free). Hours: Open daily, 8 AM - 5 PM (seasonal).
What amenities are available at Ramsey Canyon Preserve?
Ramsey Canyon Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.