One of the ABA Area's best sites for rarities, Arizona's Madera Canyon, produced another one on May 6. On that day, Linda and Jerry Elling found a Plain-capped Starthroat downstream (north) of the Whitehouse Picnic Area. It was seen on both May 6 and 7 coming to some flowering bushes on the downstream side of the bridge with handrails and flagstone steps leading to it. I marked what I believe the location to be on this map.
photos by Jerry Elling
Madera Canyon is about 30 miles south of Tucson. To get there, take I-19 south from Tucson and take the Continental Road exit (Exit 63). Go east on Continental Road, cross the Santa Cruz River and then turn right onto Whitehouse Canyon Road at the next four-way intersection. After about six miles, turn right on Madera Canyon Road. This road is paved. If you miss the turn, you'll be on a dirt road (Box Canyon Road). Madera Canyon Road takes you to the Whitehouse Picnic Area. Park here and walk downstream.
Madera Canyon is a US Forest Service fee area ($5/vehicle/day or a federal pass such as Golden Age Passport, Golden Access Passport, Golden Eagle Passport, and the National Parks Pass with a Golden Eagle sticker affixed). Park in designated areas or risk being ticketed and possibly towed.
Amazing shots while the bird was in motion! Great Work!
Posted by: Robert Alan Yeatts Jr. | 05/09/2013 at 04:27 PM