El Camino Real, famous for its Southwestern culture and history, traverses through the heart of New Mexico, stretching nearly the entire length of the state from Colorado to the Mexican border. As you drive the byway, you'll pass sky-reaching peaks in the north and flatlands in the south. This beautiful desert provides a home to a vast range of birds, many of which are easy to spot.
During the warm afternoons of late summer and early fall, hike through the Manzano Mountains, just southeast of Albuquerque. Hawks, eagles, and falcons fill this area, and nearby HawkWatch International offers an exciting up-close look at some of these beautiful, fierce raptors. Nearby, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge provides several great locations for observing and photographing migrating shorebirds and waterfowl.
Just south of San Antonio, you'll find Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, a birding paradise that straddles the Rio Grande. Although the refuge is open daily year round, try to visit in late autumn or early winter, when tens of thousands of Snow and Canada Geese, Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and other shorebirds flock to the refuge. Get an early start and be there at dawn when thousands of birds take off to go to the feeding grounds. The thick swarm of flapping wings promises memorable sights and sounds. If the approaching winter persuades you to stay in the car, don't worry. The refuge's 15-mile auto tour loop allows you to see the birds from your vehicle.
If you make a point to visit the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge during the first part of November you can participate in the The Festival of the Cranes. Held in the city of Socorro, New Mexico the festival offers visitors tours, lectures, and exibits. Participate in an evening birding tour on Elephant Butte Lake or spend all day with other birders as you encounter all the area has to offer. Attend the festival and experience the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge at the peak of its activty.
As you drive El Camino Real, you'll cover a lot of New Mexico. The varying landscapes house a plethora of bird species, and the byway's proximity to two National Wildlife Refuges increases your chances to spot birds. Enjoy the rugged, colorful Southwestern desert, as well as the winged wonders that inhabit it.
