Four diverse ecosystems in the Davis Mountains of West Texas and northern Mexico’s Copper Canyon form the backdrop for exceptional birding. Scheduled to coincide with the height of the spring or fall migration, in the mountain regions you might spot Montezuma quail, vermillion flycatcher, summer tanager or buff-breasted flycatcher. As you descend to the low Chihuahuan desert and cross the Rio Grande, look for Gambel’s quail and Harris’ hawk. As you journey through the Sierra Madres on the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway, enjoy unparalleled views of Copper Canyon. Search for magnificent hummingbird, mountain pygmy owl, pine flycatcher, slate-throated redstart or the elusive trogon. Near tropical El Fuerte, look for rufous-bellied chachalaca, bare-throated tiger heron or gray-crowned woodpecker. Along the way, you will also explore flora and fauna, geology and cultural customs, including those of the indigenous Tarahumara people.

Be prepared for walks of up to five miles over uneven paths with frequent viewing stops. This birding and Mexican history/culture program is suitable for beginner and intermediate birders. Participants must bring a valid passport for entry into Mexico.

Program in association with Davis Mountain Education Center.

Itinerary

Arrival Fort Davis, Texas, 2 nights; coach to Chihuahua City(Mexico), 1 night; train to Creel, 1 night; train to El Fuerte, 2 nights; train to Divisadero/Barrancas, 1 night; coach to Chihuahua City, 1 night; coach to Fort Davis, 1 night; departure. Shuttle is available to/from El Paso for an additional fee.

Copper Canyon (Mexico)

This remote region of diverse beauty near the U.S.-Mexico border covers thousands of square miles of territory, including vast pine and oak forests and canyons so deep that they host their own unique ecosystems. The canyon is home to the native Tarahumara Indians.