El Rio Preserve

El Rio Preserve offers a rich riparian habitat for nesting and migratory birds. More than 240 species of birds have been observed here. The preserve is part of the chain of preserved riparian habitat along the Lower Santa Cruz River, connecting sites like Sweetwater Wetlands and the Kino Environmental Restoration Project. Birdwatching (birding) is popular here, as Southern Arizona is known as one of the premier bird hotspots in the country. You can also participate in summer programs to spot spring migrants and local breeding birds. El Rio Preserve received the 2022 Natural Resources Award from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association.