10 Jun Exploring the Birds and Wildlife of the Zuni Mountains
The Zuni Mountains lie just southeast of Gallup and provide a unique mix of Rocky Mountain and Southwestern mountain species. Its ponderosa and deciduous trees shelter a large number of species, especially in the fall and spring seasons as more birds move through on their way south. Seasonally, the pond at McGaffey provides good opportunities for viewing waterfowl, and nearby acorns provide the food source for Acorn Woodpeckers near the trailhead. Many other warblers, sparrows, and elevation migratory birds are moving through.
Birdwatching is a major source of ecotourism revenue and even if you’re not a birder, understanding why others love this popular activity is important. Birders routinely travel to add to their life lists and a rare bird report in your area can bring birders from far and wide. The Gallup area and New Mexico in general are certainly very understated for birding, considering that New Mexico has the 5th highest list of any state.
Total Trip Time Including Travel Time to Meeting Point: Just about 2 1/2 to 3 hours
Meeting Time: Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 12:30 p.m.
Where to Meet: Parking next to McGaffey Lake just east of 1 NM-400, McGaffey, NM
Directions from Red Rock: Head back to NM-566 on Red Rock Pk Dr going east for about half a mile and continue south for half a mile until Route 66. Turn left, and drive east for almost 4 miles, until NM-400, going right, south over the interstate. This road continues through the town of Fort Wingate, and winds up the mountains until around 11 miles the pavement ends and there is parking next to the lake on the left to park.
Tour Leader: William Harmon, local birder
Actual Tour Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
Terrain: Flat, dirt trails and road
What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, tennis shoes, hat, and binoculars if you have them.
Group Limit: 15
Age Limit: No age limit
Difficulty Level: Easy walking with a distance of not much more than a mile.