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…
This blooming cactus may look like a saguaro, but it`s actually a cardón!
You may be wondering... if they look so similar, how can you tell the difference? Here`s some things to keep in mind:
🌵Cardóns are MUCH larger than saguaros. They have thicker trunks and can grow taller than 60 ft! 🌵They typically have more branches that form closer to the ground. 🌵They`re mostly found in Mexico whereas saguaros are primarily in Arizona.
Even though their blooms are short lived, the cardón remains a beautiful presence year round.
It`s almost that time of year when the Arboretum transforms into a beautiful autumnal display! Typically, fall colors start appearing here around mid-November or early December. It largely depends on weather patterns and temperatures. When it finally happens, pomegranates, canyon hackberries, willows, pecans, and our famous grove of scarlet-orange Chinese pistache will (most likely) be at their peak color, as will the cottonwoods in Queen Creek Canyon. It`s a sight you don`t want to miss!
Follow our stories closely for updates! We`ll make sure you know when the first fall colors start to appear.
When`s the last time you paused to watch a butterfly? 🦋 In a world that moves so fast, there`s something so calming and magical about noticing the small, beautiful things in your path.
Capture this feeling by joining one of our Butterfly Walks! You`ll learn about commonly found species and their host plants with a butterfly expert from Central Arizona Butterfly Association.
📅 October 24 and November 14 🕤9:30 - 10:30 am 🎟️Free with admission
The outdoors make the best kind of classroom. Join one of our Family Workshops to learn fun facts about nature and participate in a themed craft!
🦇Bats of Arizona: Oct 24 | Craft: Pinecone bat 📝Nature Journaling: Nov 7 | Craft: Nature journal 🍁Fall Color Fun: Nov 14 | Craft: Leaf collage 🌲All About Trees: Dec 12 | Craft: Wood cookie ornament
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am Non-Member child (5-17): $10 Member child: $8 Up to 2 adults free with child
🍄Did you know that fungi are more closely related to people than plants? They may look like plants, but the way they grow, get nutrients, and evolve is completely different.
Fungi DO interact with plants. They grow by absorbing nutrients from organic material, which is why you often find them on dying trees, logs, or on ground level.
These little guys can be found on the fence surrounding Drover`s Woolshed. Next time you visit, keep an eye out for them and any other mushrooms in your path. Sometimes they pop up in places where you`d least expect!
These beautiful photos were taken by Tim Lee, one of our loyal members! We love seeing our visitors` photography. (Especially when they include cute birds! 🐦)
Want to see some of these birds for yourself? Join us for a Bird Walk! You`ll be surrounded by other avian enthusiasts helping spot and identify our little flying friends.
📅Every Wednesday | October 2026 - April 2027 🕗 8:15 - 9:30 am 🎟️Free with admission
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