Sierra County is one of the finest birding regions in the nation in terms of habitat diversity and potential for rarities.

The riparian habitat along the Rio Grande and its associated lakes is a paradise of egrets, herons, pelicans, grebes, and unusual avian sightings, and all three of Sierra County’s state parks (Percha Dam, Caballo and Elephant Butte) were recently designated by the Audubon Society as important birding areas.

The Gila National Forest is also a prime mountain birding habitat. To learn about the bird species you may see in the Gila download their birding checklist.

Birding resources:

Our “Birding in Sierra and Socorro Counties” brochure
with southern New Mexico birding sites and a map
New Mexico Ornithological Society (NMOS)

Game and Fish’s birding info on the following areas is available in pdf form:

Animas Creek / Hillsboro / Kingston
Percha / Elephant Butte / Caballo / Las Palomas
Emory Pass
Springtime Campground
General Birding Information / Tips for the Trail