Neurodiverse Birder Walk at Fort Lowell Park with Cameron Tescher and Delaney Linn

Neurodiverse Birder Walk at Fort Lowell Park

Sunday, October 18th, 7am

Easy- There is one slight slope on one trail to access some of the desert shrubbery but it is flat as it is mostly taking place on a park, multiple areas of shade and sitting, and should be wheelchair-accessible. Accommodations will be made.

Neurodivergent refers to those who might have a brain who works differently than most people. Therefore, it might be hard for people to socialize, solve problems, or think in ways that are considered “inside the box”. Since there are many birders in the community who might define as neurodivergent, we want to be able to make an inclusive space for those who feel welcomed in the community. I plan on partnering with Tucson Bird Alliance on helping lead a walk, prioritized for those who are neurodivergent to create a safe space for those who want to meet other birders who might think differently. Anyone, despite any sort of mental conditions and diagnosis, is welcomed to join! The only rule is to be respectful to everyone.

We chose Fort Lowell Park as it might be an accessible spot for anyone as it is easy to walk around, in the center of Tucson which makes transportation easily, and the variety of habitats. This area also has plenty of birds from waterfowl, waders, desert residents, and migratory songbirds.

Route: We will park at the lot along San Francisco Avenue in front of the Fort Lowell Pool. There, we will walk around the general vicinity of the park, looking for grass foraging species and those who might be using the nearby trees and lawn. Then, there is a pond we will check out for waterfowl. We will walk around the orchard too. Finally, we will wrap up following the trail into the Pantano Wash.

Habitat: Lawn with eucalyptus and cottonwoods, pond, pecan orchard, desert scrub

Species we will look for: waterfowl such as American Wigeon and Ring-necked Duck, Neotropic Cormorant, occasional Harris’s Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, wading birds such as Black-crowned Night Heron, desert residents such as Black-tailed Gnatcatchers, migratory and overwintering birds using the nearby park such as Cedar Waxwings, and occassionally a rare bird is seen. For example, this was a known location for birders to look for Eastern Bluebirds.

Leaders: Cameron Tescher and Delaney Linn

**Registration for Tucson Bird Alliance Members is free. Non-members can join this field trip for a non-refundable fee of $5.**

Header Image: Belted Kingfisher by Dan Weisz