AZFO Field Expedition to Northwest Arizona: May 31-June 1, 2008

Mohave County (Extreme NW Corner)

Tucked away in the extreme northwest corner of our huge and beautiful state is a little-known and little-birded area known as Beaver Dam Wash, a lush cottonwood/willow oasis. This area and its confluence with the Virgin River hold many isolated springs, stock tanks, and good stands of riparian vegetation that serve as a birding trifecta: migrant stopover points, breeding grounds, and vagrant traps all in one. Other good habitat that may be worthwhile can be found in the nearby Virgin Mountains, Pipe Springs National Monument, and other areas.

The Arizona Strip, as the area north of the Grand Canyon is called, requires a long drive from just about any part of the state. For many ornithologists and birders, this makes the area all the more intriguing, as it is seldom explored. Late spring is the perfect period for finding lost warblers and other vagrants, as well as to document late migrants of the more expected species. Help us unravel a little more of the mystery by joining us in the field!

Hope to have you along,

John Yerger

Field Expeditions Chair

Please register with John Yerger by email (jyerger24@yahoo.com) or phone (814-308-4078) by Friday, May 23.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY / WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FIELD:

-This trip will require moderate walking around riparian corridors, agricultural areas, and potentially some hiking over varied terrain.

-Two early mornings and at least one afternoon of surveying

-Heat, sun, and wind

LODGING:

-We may establish a base camp on public lands, but at least a few hotels are available 10 miles west in Mesquite, Nevada (details TBA)

OTHER PREPARATIONS:

-Food (plan to supply your own meals and snacks) and water (1 gallon per day per person always recommended!)

-Please bring sunscreen and a hat, long pants, and sturdy hiking footwear

-High clearance vehicles and 2-way radios may be useful for those who can volunteer either

CARPOOLING, MEETING TIMES/PLACES:

-Carpooling to be arranged by Expedition Chair and coordinated with registered participants

-Meeting time/place: TBA to registered participants