Desert Wings:
Birding Through Arizona’s Unique Habitats
September 22 – 30, 2025
Leader: Liz Guertin • Birding Guide: Jake Thompson
Finding feathered friends in stunning Arizona scenery
Experience the amazing diversity of Arizona’s birds and landscapes during this immersive nine-day journey through the American Southwest’s most breathtaking terrain. From the dramatic vistas of the Grand Canyon to the iconic Sonoran Desert, this thoughtfully crafted adventure showcases the region’s incredible avian residents in their stunning natural habitats.
Led by master naturalist Liz Guertin and bird guide Jake Thompson, you’ll explore premier birding locations including the Desert Botanical Garden, Dead Horse Ranch State Park, and the lush riparian zones of the Verde Valley. Watch for the colorful Vermilion Flycatcher, elusive Black-chinned Hummingbird, and Arizona’s state bird, the Cactus Wren, as they navigate their desert home. Each location offers unique opportunities to observe and photograph both resident and migratory species in their natural environments.
Each day of this nature travel adventure promises new discoveries and memorable encounters. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a lover of the outdoors seeking to explore Arizona’s diverse ecosystems, this special journey promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the company of fellow wildlife enthusiasts.
Maryland Master Naturalist Liz Guertin is an experienced nature trip leader deeply committed to environmental education and advocacy. She is also an award-winning fine art photographer and the owner of Maryland-based
WildLiz LLC.
Jake Thompson is a lifelong Arizonan and experienced birding guide. In a single year, he has tracked more than 400 bird species in Arizona. Jake is passionate about wildlife conservation and outreach, and he always looks to bring that appreciation to others through birding.
Come enjoy wonders of fall migration in the stunning scenery of Arizona! As we explore desert lowlands, mountain conifer forests, riparian wetlands, and the awe-inspiring cliffs of the Grand Canyon, we’ll have the chance to encounter hundreds of species of migratory birds as they travel through flyways on their way south.
It will be a fantastic experience, and we hope you can join us!
