Series: Seasonal Inventory of Birds in Low Elevation Chihuahuan Desert Riparian Habitats

In 2004, independent researchers began conducting a three-year inventory of birds in low-elevation riparian (stream-side) habitats in the National Park Service’s Chihuahuan Desert Network. The goals of this study were to (1) document the presence, richness, and abundance of bird species; (2) compare results to existing information about park birds and update park checklists; and (3) provide baseline data and site evaluations that may be used to develop bird monitoring programs in the Network.

• Carlsbad Caverns National Park

  Article 1: Carlsbad Caverns Low Elevation Riparian Habitat Bird Inventory

  

  Carlsbad Caverns, located near the convergence of the Chihuahuan Desert and Great Plains, is near the range limits for many bird species and is a stopping point for many eastern migrating species. Outside of Rattlesnake Springs, low elevation riparian habitat is very limited in the park. A total of 155 species were documented in Carlsbad Caverns during this inventory. Read more

• Fort Davis National Historic Site

  Article 2: Fort Davis Low Elevation Riparian Habitat Bird Inventory

  

  A total of 80 species were recorded in Fort Davis National Historic Site during this inventory. Hospital Canyon supports many bird species, but not riparian obligate or dependent species. The mesquite grasslands can be productive and are used by a variety of migrant bird species. Read more

• Guadalupe Mountains National Park

  Article 3: Guadalupe Mountains Low Elevation Riparian Habitat Bird Inventory

  

  A total of 121 species were recorded during this inventory in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. McKittrick Canyon is the most extensive riparian system in the park, providing important habitat for resident and migrating birds. Choza Spring is also an important riparian area for birds. Read more

• White Sands National Park

  Article 4: White Sands Low Elevation Riparian Habitat Bird Inventory

  

  A total of 86 species in White Sands National Monument were recorded during this inventory. The researchers conducted surveys at Andrecito Creek and at the monument headquarters and visitor center. The habitat at Andrecito Creek primarily consisted of desert shrub and arroyo shrub vegetation. No riparian habitat was present at the headquarters and visitor center site. Other sites in White Sands NM may provide more significant bird habitat. Read more

• Article 5: Low Elevation Riparian Habitat Bird Inventory Contacts and Literature Cited

  

  Literature cited in the chapters above, and contact information for the researchers involved in the inventory of birds in low-elevation riparian habitats in the National Park Service’s Chihuahuan Desert Network. Read more