Short West Mexico: Jan 10—16, 2009

Russet-crowned Motmot — Photo: Brian Gibbons

Our comfortable stay at Rancho Primavera, a well-appointed guest ranch just south of Puerto Vallarta, will be the hospitable base for explorations of diverse habitats rich in endemic birds.

Western Mexico has one of the highest rates of endemism in North America, and the foothill region of the Sierra Madre Occidental is one of the better areas to observe a good cross section of Mexican species. Short West Mexico is designed to be a comfortable and inexpensive introduction to the West Mexican avifauna, and its reduced length should make it compatible with working schedules. The accommodations at Rancho Primavera are comfortable and the food is delicious.

Our trip will focus on at least three distinct habitat types. We will explore coastal areas for herons, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Mangrove swamps here will have their own unique suite of land birds. The most unique habitat type is the West Mexican thorn forest, and many of the endemic species that we will be seeking most ardently make their homes here. This dry forest type can be surprisingly difficult to bird, and is home to a number of secretive and inconspicuous species. However, with endemic species like Citreoline Trogon and Red-breasted Chat to tempt us, persistence is sure to pay off. The ranch itself is set in the foothills, where thorn forest gives way to pine forest, and one begins to see species such as Acorn Woodpecker and Grace's Warbler, as well as specialties like Military Macaw and various hummingbirds.

Over the course of the week we expect our bird list to top 230 species, of which better than 20 will be Mexican endemics, and 60 or more will be lifers for those who have not previously ventured "south of the border."

For those looking to extend their stay in Mexico, tours 1 & 2 can be combined with a short extension to the higher elevations of the Sierra Madre which promises a few days of spectacular birding during which participants will enjoy a suite of birds not possible at Rancho Primavera. The Long-tailed Wood-Partridge might creep out onto the road, while Mountain Trogons call from fir trees. The higher elevations and moister habitats will enable us to add another ten Mexican endemics, as well as a host of other fantastic birds like Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo. Our base for these explorations will be the charming colonial town of San Sebastian del Oeste.

Very comfortable accommodations and excellent food; all nights at one location; easy to moderate terrain, elevation to about 4,500 feet; midday breaks most days; dusty and sometimes bumpy van rides to reach birding locations; hot to mild, dry climate.