Birding with Michael

     These ponds are actually surprisingly diverse in waterfowl and birds. And I said surprisingly because they're actually SRP water treatment plants. With a species list of over 279 species, this makes it one of the prime birding spots in Maricopa County. In fact, other than Wilcox, it's one of the best places to view waterfowl and shorebirds... and it's right in the heart of Arizona! They may look bland and dull at first but once you see terns, gulls, heron, ibises, and plovers, your mind changes instantly. Before coming here, you need to be prepared with water and head covering (especially when your in the middle of the az heat.) Revise a map (i have one posted below with the photos) and check out every nook and cranny of this place (even though it's so extensive) because a lifer could be awaiting you at any part or any pond. In total there are 6 basins that vary in water level. Some may be completely filled at the time while some may be completely empty. For the tw...

As a birder, you probably heard about this place and the various water wildlife it has. I can't say anything against that because I know its true but I didn't have the most productive day (which I can expect from any place because birding is a hit or miss.) One thing you need to know before coming here is that you need a permit which can easily be accessed and retrieved.... here's the link:  Tres Rios Overbank Access Permit  This place is known for it's diversity... especially in waterfowl. It's also a great place to go to see the usual desert birds such as cactus wrens, gnatctachers, verdin, and you might even be lucky enough to see some owls. When preparing for my trip I also included a "checklist" withe the birds I wanted to see... yellow-headed blackbird, blue-winged teal, american white pelican, sora, virginia rail, marsh wren, and many others. That's why I considered this day unlucky, as I only saw two from my checklist. But I learned an importan...