This is one of our eBirds Gaps underbirded areas that includes a lush saguaro forest and an upland grasslands. Located near Coolidge and Florence, there are three species that we particularly want to learn more about: Desert Purple Martin, Crested Caracara, and Cassin’s Sparrow. The area along the Florence-Kelvin Highway, including side roads, has an extensive saguaro forest where they may be nesting. Caracaras have been reported along northern Barkerville Rd, Florence-Kelvin Highway, and Price Rd. Cassin’s Sparrows have been reported during the monsoon season skylarking in grassland habitat along Barkerville Rd. south of the saguaro forest.

Participants will meet Saturday morning, 6:00 am, at The Boulders along the Florence-Kelvin Highway (16 mi. east of AZ 79). Camping is optional Friday night at the rustic campsite on BLM land. We’ll likely get together mid-afternoon at a  restaurant in Florence to share the results and experiences. Most of the birding will be along roads and at earthen cattle tanks and will not involve long walking.

If you would like to participate contact Doug Jenness. Check the AZFO website for information and a map of the Cactus Forest Area.