Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico

12/07/2025

Are you new to Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) and/or are confused about how they work?! Well we have a zoom presentation for you! Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico board member Jason Kitting will be presenting on the basics of CBCs tomorrow (Sunday Dec 7th) at 6pm MST. This presentation will go over how to set up and use eBird, proper CBC protocols, how to describe rare birds, and what bird species to expect to see while counting for CBCs in central New Mexico (both common and rare).

Most of the information in this presentation is applicable to all CBCs and not just local counts. The only section specifically geared towards central New Mexico is the bird section, all other sections are useful for all counts regardless of location.

Please email Asher Gorbet and Jason Kitting at [email protected] or DM us for a link to this presentation. If you are unable to join us tomorrow, the presentation will be recorded and a link will be available on our website. We hope to see you all tomorrow! Also if you are interested in counting for the Albuquerque CBC happening on Sunday December 21, please email Asher and Jason at the above email!

12/02/2025

Christmas Bird Count (CBC) season is just around the corner! If you are unfamiliar with CBCs, it's the time of year birders gather all across North and South America in order to count birds. According to the National Audubon Society's website, the concept of CBCs first became established in 1900 when a group of conservationists came together to promote counting birds instead of hunting them.

There are 3 CBC circles located in and around Albuquerque (see 2nd pic), and this year Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico (BACNM) will be hosting and compiling the Albuquerque CBC! BACNM board members Asher Gorbet and Jason Kitting will be the compilers, so please contact them at the listed email if you are interested in joining this count. If you are new to CBCs or want to know more about the history of CBCs, follow the below link (or find the link in our bio on instagram) to see Asher Gorbet's presentation on “History and Purpose of Christmas Bird Counts."

https://www.bacnm.org/archived-meetings/

If you have no idea how to count for a CBC and/or want to learn the expected and targeted species for CBCs in central New Mexico, stay tuned for a zoom presentation by Jason Kitting that will take place the week before the count! This presentation will go over how to setup and use Ebird, proper CBC protocol, what species are expected in this area, and how to identify the rare or "target" species.

Listed below are the dates and contact information for the compilers of these counts. If you are interested in participating in any of these counts, PLEASE contact the compiler before the count date.

Albuquerque CBC (ABQ) December 21st, 2025
Contact Asher Gorbet and Jason Kitting at [email protected]

Valle de Oro NWR CBC (VDO) Date TBD
Contact Laurel Ladwig at [email protected]

Sandia Mountains CBC (Sandia) December 26th, 2024
Contact Vicki Dern at [email protected]

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico! We hope you are all warm and enjoying a feast on this cold fall day. In celebration of "Turkey Day," here are some turkey facts!

The Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is a widespread and iconic species found across the majority of the United States and large parts of central Mexico. There are currently 5 recognized subspecies of Wild Turkey, 3 of which can be found in New Mexico. These 3 subspecies include the Rio Grande Wild Turkey (found in the northeast corner of the state and along the Rio Grande), Merriam's Wild Turkey (found throughout the mountains of NM), and the Gould's Wild Turkey (found in the extreme southwest corner of the state). The Gould's Wild Turkey is the largest of all of the subspecies and is the population that gave rise to all of today's domestic turkey breeds. The Wild Turkey is also one of only two bird species native to North America that were domesticated by people. The other domesticated species is the Muscovy Duck.

Many people also don't know that there is also a tropical turkey species call the Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata). They overall look very similar to the Wild Turkey, but with bright blue and orange skin with many more "warty" growths on the head. This species has a much smaller range than the Wild Turkey and is only found in the Yucatan Peninsula of southeastern Mexico, northwestern Guatemala, and most of Belize.

Due to overhunting and deforestation in the 1800s, Wild Turkey populations plummeted throughout much of their range. They were completely extirpated (became locally extinct) from the Sandia Mountains and many other areas in New Mexico. In 2004, 21 Wild Turkeys (3 toms and 18 hens) from remnant populations further north in the state were introduced into the Sandias. There are now hundreds in these mountains, and all of them descend from those original 21 birds.

Thanks to James Shuler for this amazing picture which was featured in the Audubon Photography Awards.

10/12/2025

Great comparison of Yellow-rumped Warblers! All were banded at the Rio Grande Nature Center, so we see all types here in central New Mexico.

It’s butter butt season again! The time of year when the Yellow-rumped Warblers (Setophaga coronata) start to show up. For many of us, this is the only warbler species that sticks around all winter long.

If you’re familiar with this widespread species, you may already know that there are two different subspecies, the Audubon’s in the west and the Myrtle of the east and far north. Here’s a look at the differences between these two subspecies, as well as what to look for in an “intergrade.”

The left column shows the Audubon’s subspecies which is known for a yellow throat which is small and round in shape, and lacks an eyebrow. These birds are found breeding throughout the mountains of northern Mexico and western US and Canada. The right column shows the Myrtle subspecies which is known for a white throat which has an almost diamond shaped throat patch which goes up by the shoulder. They also have a distinct white eyebrow (more obvious during the breeding season). These birds breed in the eastern Appalachian Mountains and throughout the Canadian boreal forest up into Alaska.

The middle column is of an “intergrade” or a mix between the two subspecies. These birds show a lot of variability in their plumage, but the most obvious ones have both yellow and white in the throat, an intermediate throat shape, and a partial eyebrow that may not be symmetrical on both side of the head. These birds only come from the northern Rockies in western Canada where the two subspecies breeding ranges overlap. It should be noted that all of these pictures were taken when these birds were in their winter plumage (basic plumage), so these characteristics are harder to see compared to when they are in their breeding plumage (alternate plumage).

All banding is being conducted under a federally authorized Bird Banding Permit issued by the U.S. Geological Survey’s BBL.

05/12/2025

URBAN BIRD PROJECT

During the Urban Bird Project, a new bird species which can be found in urban areas in central New Mexico will be introduced every one or two weeks on Mondays.
Special thanks again to Brandt Magic for sending us this great picture of this week's featured species!

The Curve-billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre) is an iconic desert thrasher found throughout large parts of central Mexico, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as small parts of Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Some key features for identifying this species include a spotted breast, a bright orange eye, a slightly decurved beak, a tan to orange vent, and a relatively long tail with white tips to the outer tail feathers (also talled tail corners). These birds also have very distinct call notes which are loud whistles often given inThe Curve-billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre) is an iconic desert thrasher found throughout large parts of central Mexico, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as small parts of Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Some key features for identifying this species include a spotted breast, a bright orange eye, a slightly decurved beak, a tan to orange vent, and a relatively long tail with white tips to the outer tail feathers (also talled tail corners). These birds also have very distinct call notes which are loud whistles often given in twos or threes.

As the picture (and our logo) suggests, Curve-billed Thrashers (CBTHs for short) are highly associated with cactus, and especially species of cholla cactus. CBTHs can easily shelter within the spiky cholla arms, and these same spiky arms provide these birds a safe place to hide their nests. The Tree Cholla (Cylindropuntia imbricata) is a native species of branching cholla and a favorite of CBTHs for shelter and nest sites. Other species of cholla are also often used, as well as many large species of ornamental Prickly Pear.

05/02/2025

If you have been birding for any length of time, chances are you have seen a familiar bird with some odd looking plumage. There are all kinds of reasons why birds will show odd plumages. Some of these reasons have to do with diet or stress, but here's a look at an easy to see genetic cause of odd plumages.

Many of us are familiar with albinism (to be albino) in animals. These albino animals lack any pigment in their skin, feathers, hair, or scales which results in a completely white appearance with pink to red eyes. But have you ever heard of leucism (to be leucistic)? Animals that are leucistic are often referred to as "partially albino" because many individuals have random white patches throughout the body but usually show at least some normal coloration too. Although patches of white is the most commonly seen form of leucism, individuals can also have subdued or muted coloration (often called blondes), or even completely white but with normally colored eyes. Similar to albinism, leucism can be caused by recessive genes inherited by both parents.

The first picture is of a leucistic American Coot (Fulica americana) who was almost completely white with small patches of dark gray scattered throughout their body. This bird spent the winter in the Bosque ponds at Tingley Beach several years ago. The second picture is of a leucistic White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) who has a large white patch in the face and a smaller white patch in the wing.

Have you seen any albino or leucistic birds while out birding? Let us know if you have!

04/15/2025

Rare Bird Alert!

This female Phainopepla (Phainopepla nitens) has been hanging out at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park (2901 Candelaria Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107) for several weeks now! She has been visiting the berry bushes and mistletoes found at the southwest corner of the Nature Center property near the bike trail. This unique species is the only member of its family (the Silky Flycatchers) who's range extends far enough north that it reaches the United States. They are found in the southern parts of the southwestern United States and large areas of western and central Mexico. Although these birds are expected in New Mexico, they are generally found further south in the state. They are particularly abundant at Percha Dam where large amounts of their favorite food (mistletoe) can be found in the old cottonwoods.

Phainopepla (PHAI for short) are highly associated with two main habitat types. These two habitat types include mesquite forest and cottonwood forest. Both of these ecosystems have different mistletoe species which are known for producing abundant berries. PHAIs actually breed in both habitats most years, first breeding in the mesquite trees and then moving into the cottonwoods later in summer. Thanks to climate change and drought conditions, the mistletoe that these birds require are becoming more abundant which is allowing these birds to move further north along the Rio Grande. Thanks to Lefty Arnold for this amazing shot of this unique bird!

04/15/2025

URBAN BIRD PROJECT

During the Urban Bird Project, a new bird species which can be found in urban areas in central New Mexico will be introduced every one or two weeks on Mondays. Special thanks again to Celestyn Brozek for sending us this great picture of this week's featured species!

The American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) is a widespread species that is found across most of the United States and Canada. They are found in a large variety of forested habitats, including many urban environments. A large group used to roost in the large trees outside at the Coronado Mall in Albuquerque, and there is still a group several hundred strong roosting near Alameda Bridge. These familiar and personal birds are known for their intelligence and their loud and distinct cawing. During the breeding season, these birds separate into pairs or loose colonies to raise their young, but they then form large flocks (called a murder) during migration and winter. These murders can sometimes become several thousand strong.

As we mentioned before, Crows (and all Corvids for that matter) are known for their intelligence. These birds are so smart that they have been observed using tools and solving simple and complex puzzles for food. They have even been known to use traffic to crack hard nuts and will then wait for the crosswalk light in order to grab their now open nut. There was even an interesting experiment at a university in Washington using masks that showed Crows are able to recognize individual human faces.

04/07/2025

Birding Spot Spotlight!

This week's featured birding spot is the Sandia Crest House (701 Sandia Crest Rd., Sandia Park, NM 87047) located at the top of the Sandia Mountains. This beautiful high elevation site offers beautiful views of the city of Albuquerque and the many mountain ranges of northern/central New Mexico. This spruce, fir, and aspen dominated forest is a rare glimpse into a habitat type usually found much further north.

Multiple trails run north and south from the Crest House and run along the ridge top or through the thick conifer forest. The trails going south from the Crest House lead to Kiwanis Meadow and the famous Kiwanis Cabin. This mosaic of mixed spruce/fir forest, mountain meadows, and cliff faces offers habitat for a large variety of bird species, as well as many other types of wildlife. Commonly encountered bird species in winter and early spring include Common Raven, Steller's Jay, Red-tailed Hawk, Cassin's Finch, Pine Siskin, Mountain Chickadee, Red-breasted and White-breasted Nuthatches, Dark-eyed Junco, and Yellow-rumped Warbler.

The Sandia Crest House also has a bird feeder at the southern end of the building which is the main attractant for the enigmatic flocks of Rosy-Finches. It just so happens that the Sandia Mountains are the southern tip of the regular wintering range of all three species of North American Rosy-Finch. It is also one of the easiest access areas to view all 3 species in the world. Because this area is so unique in regards to these birds, the organization Rio Grande Bird Research Inc. has been researching these birds here for 20 years now.

In the past, the Sandia Crest House was also a cafe and gift shop that worked closely with birders and the bird researchers. Due to a variety of reasons including Covid and ownership changes, the Crest House has been closed since 2020 with the hope that it would one day open again. Unfortunately, it was recently announced that the Crest House will not be re-opening. Instead a small picnic area is being planned to replace the building once it has been taken down. We do not know the time table on this yet.

03/25/2025

URBAN BIRD PROJECT

During the Urban Bird Project, a new bird species which can be found in urban areas in central New Mexico will be introduced every one or two weeks on Mondays. Special thanks again to Celestyn Brozek for sending us this iconic picture of this week's featured species!

The Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) is a true desert survivor! These birds are are able to survive in a wide variety of dry habitats across the southwestern US and most of Mexico. They are also highly adaptable to urban areas, particularly when cactus (such as cholla) and other desert plants are used in the landscaping.

You probably already know this, but the Greater Roadrunner (GRRO for short) is the state bird of New Mexico which definitely makes them the most recognizable bird in the state! It is also considered good luck to have a roadrunner run across the road in front of you. GRROs are highly adapted for dealing with extreme temperatures and lack of water, and they have mechanisms to cool themselves down in the heat, warm themselves up in the cold, and can even enter a partial hibernation state called torpor.

A very large part of the GRRO's diet consists of lizards. It is not uncommon to see these birds running around with a freshly killed lizard hanging from their beak. They will also eat mice, birds, large insects, and small amphibians when they can catch them. If you want to attract GRROs to your yard, try putting out mealworms. These birds have definitely learned that people mean food, and they definitely are above begging!

03/23/2025

Spring is definitely in the air and the migrants are on their way north! Cinnamon Teal (Spatula cyanoptera) are one of the earliest migrants to arrive back in central New Mexico, usually first arriving in mid-March. This time of year the brilliant orange males are in their brightest colors as the prepare for the coming breeding season, while the females are sporting their typical streaky gray and brown plumage which allows them to camouflage as they sit on their nests.

Cinnamon Teal (CITE for short) are unique among North American ducks in that they are one of the few with a range that stays mostly within the western US and central Mexico. Interestingly, CITEs also have a totally separate South American population.

If you know duck species, it won’t be a surprise to you that the Blue-winged Teal (BWTE) is very closely related to the CITE, but they are not closely related to Green-winged Teal (GWTE). Instead CITE and BWTE are actually closer related to the Northern Shoveler.

03/18/2025

URBAN BIRD PROJECT

During the Urban Bird Project, a new bird species which can be found in urban areas in central New Mexico will be introduced every one or two weeks on Mondays. Special thanks to Dwayne Longenbaugh and Celestyn Brozek for sending us these great pictures of this week's featured species.

This week's featured species is our only year-round warbler species! The Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) gets its name from the obvious yellow patch in their rumps (see second pic) which is also how this species got the nickname "butter butt." They are also one of the most widespread warbler species found in North America, and as we mentioned before, they also winter further north than any other warbler species. This is due to the fact that these birds are able to rely on berries in winter while most warbler species have to move south in order to find insects year-round. During the breeding season, Yellow-rumped Warblers (YRWAs for short) can be found in mixed pine forest throughout the Canadian boreal forest, the Appalachia's, and the mountains of the western US and central Mexico. During migration and winter, these birds leave the mountains and the far north for the southern US (further north in the eastern US) and most of Central America.

Like many bird species, YRWAs are able to use a wider variety of habitat types during migration and winter. During this time, YRWAs can be found in almost any forested habitat including many urban landscapes. These birds are particularly fond of the pine and juniper trees used in landscaping and are common visitors to bird baths and suet feeders. They will even take advantage of the berries produced by many of the shrubs used in landscaping.