As an Important Bird Area, Boyce Thompson Arboretum and the adjacent Arnett and Queen Creeks are known for spectacular birding opportunities.
Some 275 different species have been sighted. Guided bird walks take place between October and May.
Named the “most enchanting” Audubon Important Bird Area in Arizona, Boyce Thompson Arboretum provides important habitats and resources throughout the year, qualifying the site under the criteria “exceptional seasonal diversity of land-birds,” as well as “outstanding land-bird stopover site.” BTA’s riparian habitat, which provides for riparian-dependent species as well as rare and threatened species, is an exceptional example in a state where these important areas account for only one percent of land area. Of the 275 species recorded in the IBA, 62 are species of Special Conservation Status in Arizona.
This combination of high species richness and occasionally high numbers of migrants is ecologically significant and provides a remarkable opportunity for visitors to observe and learn about birds.
Your support helps us to protect birds and wildlife—and their habitats—and to educate the conservation leaders of tomorrow.
Every visit supports research, and environmental education, and directly benefits the mission and success of Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Guided bird walks are an ideal way to get into birding or to sharpen your skills! Join birding experts on scheduled walks from October through May. Beginners are welcome. No binoculars? No problem! Ask in our gift shop when you pay admission; loaner binoculars are available.
Beginner Bird Walk
November 1, 2025, 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Are you interested in learning more about birding? Join us on a Beginner Bird Walk where you’ll learn how to use your binoculars and…
Don`t forget to bring your dogs to the Arboretum this Saturday for Tails & Trails!
Adventure meets wagging tails for this fun-filled day at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Activities include:
- Dog adoptions with @pinalcountyanimalcontrol and @barbsdogrescue - Docent lead dog hikes - Pet-related vendors - Food/Beverage Trucks - Puppy Yoga (Pre-registration Required) - Dog training workshop (Pre-registration Required)
Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026 Time: 10 am - 3 pm
Tails & Trails is free with admission! With additional items and activities available for purchase. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
Pictured is a Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus) found in the Canyon Region of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. A winter visitor of the Arboretum, the Spotted Towhee prefers dense brush and can most often be sighted foraging through leaf litter on the ground.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum provides important habitats and resources to over 200 species of birds. Visit and experience this spectacular birding opportunity. Get tickets at the link in bio.
On top is an image of Ayer Lake from 1926. Ayer Lake was constructed in 1925 as a reservoir for the Arboretum. Today, the lake is a home to native plant and animal species that rely on riparian areas.
Take a walk through history and experience the beauty of the Arboretum for yourself. Get tickets at the link in bio.
There`s only one month left to experience the beauty of Glass in Flight at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Through January, explore larger than-life glass and steel sculptures of butterflies, dragonflies, ants, bees, and other pollinators. Made by artist Alex Heveri from hand-cut Dalle de Verre glass, the works glow in the sun and blend naturally into the Arboretum’s gardens, highlighting the beauty and importance of pollinators.
The exhibition continues after dark for Glass in Flight at Night. These sculptures are illuminated against the desert night. Visitors have a rare chance to enjoy the Arboretum through golden hour, sunset, and evening, when both the artwork and the landscape take on new dimensions.
@glassinflight is on display during normal operating hours through January 31st. Glass in Flight at Night evening hours are Fridays-Sundays, 5 pm - 8 pm, through January 31st. The exhibit is included with regular admission.
Come see Glass in Flight before it`s gone. Plan your visit at the link in bio.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a cherished place for so many, each with their own connection to its beauty and purpose. As 2025 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on all we’ve accomplished together. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we are thrilled to share that we are 80% of the way to our calendar year-end goal!
We are deeply grateful for the incredible support that makes our work possible. If you haven’t made your year-end, tax-deductible gift yet, there’s still time to help us continue to preserve, inspire, and grow.
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