Birding in New Mexico Photos and article by Gary Saint-John
O American Robin
ne of the most easily identified and well-known birds in New Mexico is the American Robin, that worm-pulling, berry-eating creature that graces yards and parks throughout the state. With its reddish breast, dark head, white eye ring, and yellow beak, the American Robin is one of 557 species of birds that have been recorded in the Land of Enchantment. * And that number—557—ranks New Mexico as fourth in terms of the number of bird species seen in the 50 states of the United States. (California is number one, Texas ranks number two, and Florida claims the number-three spot.) * We’ll get to why New Mexico has so many species of birds in a while, but first: have you seen an American Robin? (The American Robin is just an example. Maybe you have seen a Turkey Vulture, or a Mallard, or a Redtailed Hawk, but are not aware that that is what you’re seeing.) If you’re a little curious and a little observant, you are ready to become a full-fledged birder! Being curious is good, because curiosity and patient observation are key factors in the fascinating pastime of birding. If you want to become more accomplished at identifying birds, four things are critical: 1) A sense of wonder. People are curious about numerous things, from collecting stamps to stargazing to watching birds. That curiosity—that sense of wonder—is an important element of birding. 2) Tools to closely observe what you are seeing. Binoculars are essential if you want to closely examine birds, particularly birds that are difficult to identify (and that’s a lot of birds!). Likewise, a spotting scope is handy when looking at distant birds, such as one on a lake. These tools can be expensive, so getting the right piece of equipment at an affordable price requires some research. 3) An identification guide. Numerous books, known as field guides, are available to help you determine what bird has captured your attention. The internet is a wonderful resource to help you identify a particular species. You can even download bird-identification apps to your smart phone! 4) Taking time to watch birds. If you’re occupied with day-to-day tasks, getting to know birds can seem a distant goal. Squeezing time into your
Relax in the Pines
Cedar Waxwing
Kamp Kiwanis
Kamp Kiwanis
505-863-6868
Kamp Kiwanis is just 18 miles south of Gallup off Hwy 602. We rent our facilities for wedin Relax ndings, family reunions, meeti es the P ings, picnics
Kamp Kiwanis is just 18 miles south of Gallup Kamp Kiwanis is just 18 miles off Hwy 602. south of Gallup off Hwy 602. We our facilities Werent rent our for: •facilities weddings for: ••family reunions weddings ••meetings family reunions ••picnics meetings Southwest District • picnics Kiwanis Foundation www.kswdfoundation.org
Facilities include: lodge and kitchen, dormsSouthwest for 160, natureDistrict trails, Facilities include: lodge and kitchen, dorms for 160, Kiwanis chapel, picnic area, and much more! Foundation nature trails, chapel, picnic area and much more!
www.kswdfoundation.org
Contact Krista McDonald for a tour or reservations at 505-778-5764
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April 2019
Contact Krista McDonald for a tour or reservations at 505-778-5764
