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Bandelier National MonumentTurkey Vulture
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Bandelier National Monument
Birds
 
western tanager

NPS Photo by Sally King

Western Tanagers are summer residents of the park.

Birds add color, movement, and sound to all areas of Bandelier National Monument. Birds such as Steller's Jays, Canyon Towhees, and Mountain Chickadees stay year-round whereas Turkey Vultures, Western Tanagers, and Black-headed Grosbeaks are "summer only" residents. Sandhill Cranes rarely land in the park but make their presence known each fall and spring as they migrate overhead.

If you are looking for a specific bird, it is important to know the habitat it likes. Some birds are common only in the park's lush riparian areas while others prefer the drier mesatops.

 

 
spotted towhee
NPS Photo by Sally King
Spotted Towhees can be seen in Frijoles Canyon but are more likely to be found on the open scrubby mesatops.
 
golden-crowned kinglet
NPS Photo by Sally King
In the winter of 2006 there were many mixed flocks, that included Golden-crowned Kinglets, in Frijoles Canyon.
 
Male Rufous Hummingbird
Summer and Migratory Birds
Photos and Descriptions
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Williamson's Sapsucker (female)
Year-round and Winter Birds
Photos and Descriptions
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Queen butterfly  

Did You Know?
Queen butterflies are often mistaken for Monarchs because they look so much alike. This is beneficial to the Queen, who is avoided by predators who fear this look-alike may be as toxic as the Monarch.

Last Updated: March 18, 2008 at 18:31 EST