Highlights:
- Small desert oasis, wet year-round
- Cottonwood trees and dense shrubs here make attractive shelter for birds
Trail Length: .25 mile loop
The Location
Dugout Wells is a remnant of an old ranch and the windmill that was used to pull underground water is still functioning. Consequently, the ground remains wet year-round which creates a small grove of Cottonwoods and dense shrub.
Reliable water plus shade and shelter is like a beacon to the desert birds, and therefore birders as well. A short trail will take you right into the heart of the vegetation where shade and a picnic table await you.
Birding Recommendations
Simply walk the perimeter along the gravel road and the short trail that cuts through the center of the vegetation. There’s no big secrets to this spot, it’s just a great little bird oasis in the desert. Go slow and enjoy.
Common year-round species include:
- Scaled Quail
- Greater Roadrunner
- Verdin
- Cactus Wren
- Black-tailed Gnatcatcher,
- Curve-billed Thrasher
- Black-throated Sparrow
Summer sightings (May-September):
- Elf Owl
- Lesser Nighthawk
- Western Wood-Pewee
- Bell’s Vireo
- Blue Grosbeak
- Scott’s Oriole
Other Information
This is also where the trail head to the short Chihuahuan Desert Trail is located, which is an easy .5 mile loop on the desert floor. This is a good spot for Scaled Quail early and late in the day.
Happy Birding!
