Bird watching in the Stronghold
Early mornings are especially magical, when the desert comes alive with songbirds and raptors riding the thermals. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious, the Stronghold offers endless opportunities to spot and photograph Arizona’s unique avian wildlife.
The Peregrine Falcon
Often mistaken for prairie falcons, peregrine falcons are distinguished by their long, pointed wings, dark hoods, and slate-gray backs. Their bellies, legs, and tails display striking bars, while their chests remain unmarked. At Cochise Stronghold, many of the granite domes serve as nesting sites, and it is the responsibility of climbers and hikers to respect these birds and avoid disturbing them.
The Acorn Woodpecker
The Acorn Woodpecker is a striking bird commonly seen around Cochise Stronghold. Recognizable by its black-and-white body, bright red cap, and bold white face, this species is famous for storing acorns in “granaries”, holes drilled into tree trunks or wooden structures. Often found in groups, acorn woodpeckers can be seen in the oak woodlands and canyon edges.
Greater Roadrunner
The greater roadrunner is an iconic desert bird often spotted dashing across the trails of Cochise Stronghold. Roadrunners feed on insects, small reptiles, and even scorpions, making them an important part of the desert ecosystem. They are recognized by their long tails, prominent crests, and streaked plumage. This ground-dwelling bird is both an agile runner and a skilled predator.
Sandhill Cranes
Each winter, thousands of Sandhill Cranes migrate to Cochise County’s Whitewater Draw and surrounding wetlands, creating one of Arizona’s most stunning wildlife spectacles. At sunrise and sunset, massive flocks fill the sky with their distinctive calls as they travel between roosting sites and nearby fields, a breathtaking scene that draws birdwatchers from all over.
