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Turkey Vulture. Photo by Trish Gunther Van Housen
As sure a sign of Spring as the famous swallows of Capistrano, the Sonoran Desert’s own Turkey Vultures have returned following their winter migration to Mexico.
March is the month for the Spring Equinox, observed by cultures from the ancient Greeks to Aboriginal Australians. Boyce Thompson Arboretum celebrates the transition of seasons with its own quirky event: the annual “Welcome Back Buzzards” seasonal salute to migratory Turkey Vultures.
The scenic Arizona State Park opens at 7 a.m. on March 26, one hour earlier than usual so visitors can observe the big, black birds perched in trees and on volcanic cliffs before they depart to circle the skies over Pinal County. Events are included with adult admission of $10; free to BTA annual members and AZ state parks pass-holders.
World-traveled ASU Professor Dave Pearson returns by popular demand be the guest ‘Vulture-ologist’ from 7-8:30 a.m., talking about the big black birds, answering questions and sharing his appreciation for the soaring scavengers until the vultures take to the skies – typically by 8:30 a.m. Dr. Pearson and others will guide birdwalks through the gardens at 8:30 a.m., and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. volunteer wildlife rehabbers from Fallen Feathers Wildlife Rescue will have a popular living exhibit of raptors set up near the Smith Building, so kids and adults alike can have close-up views of a real, live Turkey Vulture along with other birds.
A few other events on tap for the day include a general tour of the main trail at 11 a.m., guided wildflower walk at 1 p.m., and the park’s popular geology walk steps-off from the visitor center at 1:30 p.m. Confirm event times and read more at cals.arizona.edu/bta.
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