Santa Cruz Flats Raptor Survey

The 19th annual survey will be 20 January 2024.

Peregrine Falcons, 15 January 2022. Photo by Rich Glinski

Many hawk species winter in southern Arizona, some in relatively large numbers, augmenting resident populations. Santa Cruz Flats in Pinal County is particularly noteworthy for drawing these winter visitors. Located along the basin of the Santa Cruz River, which flows northwest across the county towards the Gila River, the area encompasses approximately 350 square miles and has an average elevation of 1,700 feet. It is primarily agricultural, and abundant rodents, thousands of wintering sparrows, and a big population of doves offer a ready food supply for raptors. Palms, cottonwoods, pines, and clumps of tamarisk and palo verde provide roosting sites for owls.

Merlin, 15 January 2022. Photo by Muriel Neddermeyer

Crested Caracaras, first reported from this area in 1965, appear to be increasing. Although the numbers observed in the winter are higher than other seasons, they are seen year-round as some pairs nest in the area. A large population of Black Vultures also resides at this location, although total numbers are not well known. Turkey Vultures, while common in summer and numerous during migration, are rare in the winter.

Annually assessing the number of raptors wintering in this area establishes a potentially useful baseline for evaluating plans that could significantly alter the habitat and wildlife at the Flats. A summary of the first 15 years of the count can be found in Arizona Birds.