Date October 16, 2026
Location Salinas Pueblos Missions National Monument, Quarai, NM
This species is notoriously difficult to find due to their nomadic nature. I was fortunate to have a "guide" help identify this one for me.
We were participating in the ranger-led tour of the mission ruins, and he constantly interrupted himself to point out birds. He was an avid birder. Based on what he was saying and identifying, it was clear that he was the real deal. So I eventually trusted him on the ID, although I was pretty much able to confirm the call notes and behavior.
So as we're walking along, he stops and points out a small flock of birds overhead. We heard lots of call notes. He said they were red crossbills, and that they nest in the nearby Manzano mountains. I can't say that I got a great look at them -- I didn't even have binoculars, but again, based on his obvious skill and confidence, and after reading up on the species later, I was comfortable making the call.
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