An Unusual Visitor Is Coming To Arizona This Winter

Arizona is home to a wide variety of natural wildlife, none more impressive than its avian population. There are approximately 550 different species of birds from border to border of the Grand Canyon State.

There are some though, that we don't expect to see way out here in the desert, and one species may be making a surprise visit to Cochise County this year.

Pelicans in Arizona

As winter begins to rear its ugly head, bird species from all over America will begin their yearly southern migration. This is incredibly well documented, especially in Arizona, but usually its species we'd expect to thrive in these conditions.

This year will be a tad different, as Pelican flocks are expected to make landfall in southern Arizona during their migration. As seafaring birds, Pelicans are likely to hole up near water sources, so places like the Sulfur Springs Valley and Whitewater Draw Wildlife area are prime locations to go Pelican spotting this winter.

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Arizona's Cutest Animal Species is Right Here in Sierra Vista

Why Are Sea Birds Coming to Arizona?

Okay sure, a bird notorious for its life near water is coming to one of the most arid states in the country, but why? Well, the explanation is quite simple. Arizona sits right on the "Pacific Flyway", a common migration route for birds from Alaska and western Canada.

As Arizona is one of the warmer states in between the Great White North and Central/South America, many water birds will make a stop here to refuel and prepare for the last leg of their journey. This doesn't just include pelicans, but also ducks and herons.

[AZ Central][AZ Game and Fish][Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum]