Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary

...where nature and history intersect on 135 acres of striking landscapes.

One quite interesting stop you can make during your group Santa Fe visit is at the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary, one of New Mexico's primary state Audubon chapters.

With a mission to 'conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity', this sanctuary is a clear haven for any animal and eco-lovers in the group, but we also think those not outright interested will find something they enjoy here at the center.

There are over 190 species of birds within the sanctuary, the 135-acre area bounded by thousands of acres of National Forest and Santa Fe Watershed land. Explore the land itself by taking a trail hike or garden walk, the landscapes ranging from meadows and Ponderosa Pine Forests to riverside riparian lands and pinion juniper woodland. You will undoubtedly see local wildlife, primarily birds, some New Mexico state birds including the Lesser Prarie-Chicken, Greater Roadrunner (pictured below), Western Bluebird, and Cooper's Hawk.

There are several nature-based science education programs available onsite, each 'offering hands-on, creative, nature-based activities that bring science curriculum to life. Groups will learn about the states 'priority birds', including the Yellow-Billed Cuckoo, Sandhill Crane, and Juniper Titmouse. They will also learn about the sanctuary's efforts to restore local habitats and implement policies that safeguard birds and wildlife. There are Bird Walks every Saturday at 8:30 AM, as well.