This list of the most frequently seen birds at Tonto National Monument is based on previous documentation of abundance (A). Birds are classified as common (C), meaning likely to be seen on a daily basis (in season); uncommon (U), meaning likely to be seen a few times a week; or rare (R), meaning likely to be seen a few times a month (in season and habitat).
Habitats (H) are separated into three categories. Riparian (R) habitats occur in or along the canyon bottom with deciduous riparian vegetation, such as sycamore, walnut, hackberry, and elderberry. Desert Scrub (D) habitats include dry uplands and washes with mesquite, saguaro, pricklypear, ocotillo, and paloverde. Chaparral (Ch) includes the park’s higher elevations, with Sonoran scrub oak and crucifi xion thorn.
The varied habitats of Tonto National Monument make it a vital site for many birds across the seasons (S). Birds that do not migrate are considered year-round residents (Y) and can be seen at any time of year. Summer (S) residents are breeders present during June–August, while winter (W) residents occur from November to February. Migrant (M) birds may be seen from March to May and September to October as they briefl y pass through the monument on their way to other habitats.
