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…
♻️Do you recycle? These birds do! Meet nature`s best clean up crew: the Turkey Vulture. Next time you visit us, keep an eye out for these incredible birds. If you get any pics, don`t forget to tag us in your post!
Boyce Thompson Arboretum will be closed on Saturday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. We`ll reopen Sunday, July 5th from 6 am to 12 pm. See you then!
As our fiscal year comes to a close, we`re reflecting with gratitude on the incredible community that makes Boyce Thompson Arboretum thrive.
Your support doesn`t take the summer off. During these hottest months, your generosity helps care for thousands of desert plants, provides vital habitat for Arizona wildlife, advances conservation and research, and prepares us to welcome thousands of students and visitors in the seasons ahead.
Every thriving bloom, shaded trail, and wildlife sighting is possible because of supporters like you.
Thank you for growing with us, believing in our mission, and helping protect Arizona`s desert landscapes for generations to come.
It`s not too late to add your support! Donate Now --> https://tinyurl.com/donateBTA...
Join us Wednesday, July 1, for an early morning Bird Walk! This guided walk is perfect for beginners and seasoned birders alike. Don`t have binoculars? No problem! Loaner binoculars are available at our admission window. We hope to see you there!
📆Wednesday, July 1 🕕6:15 - 7:45 am 🚶🏽♀️Walk size: 15 people 🎫Free with admission
Have you seen our raised garden beds? 🌿Located by the Smith Greenhouses, this spot is proof that growth can happen even in small, compact places. Take a look and get inspiration for your own garden!
When we think of pollinators, our minds probably go to birds and bees first. But at night, a different type of creature takes over pollination duties! A total of 29 bat species live in Arizona, making our state second in the nation for bat diversity. While many eat insects, some species drink nectar, making them a valuable part of our ecosystem.
Next time you are admiring a saguaro in bloom, make sure to thank the white-winged dove! These beautiful birds are key pollinators of saguaro cactus. In fact, they are so highly dependent on saguaro, they have synchronized their migration to match its reproductive cycle!
And of course, we can`t forget hummingbirds, the most famous of pollinating birds. Arizona has at least 17 species of these small creatures, each playing an important role in pollinating our beautiful desert plants!
Many plants go dormant during the winter, but the Sea Squill does the opposite! When temperatures start to rise and water becomes less available, this plant sheds its leaves and conserves energy until conditions become more favorable.
During its flowering cycle, the Sea Squill attracts insect pollinators like bees and butterflies, giving it an important role in the pollination cycle!
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