Many unique wildlife species call Albuquerque home. Some, such as New Mexico’s state bird the roadrunner, can be found throughout the city nearly year-round. Others can be a little trickier to spot. Here’s a roundup of some of the best places for you to catch a glimpse of one of the many creatures that roam New Mexico.
ABQ BioPark Zoo
One of the best places to see wildlife from around the world is the ABQ BioPark Zoo. With 64 acres of exhibits to explore, you can find everything from elephants to penguins. There are local species as well, including Mexican gray wolves, gila monsters and mountain lions. Soon visitors will be able to view a new Asia exhibit featuring orangutans, siamangs and tigers. Phase one of the new Australia exhibit is set to open in 2023, which will bring little blue penguins and other seabirds to Albuquerque.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park offers year-round bird-watching. With indoor and outdoor viewing areas overlooking ponds, you can spot around 250 species of birds. Explore a trail system along the river where you can spy porcupines nestled in the cottonwood trees and, during the summer, lizards and other reptiles darting across the path.
Wildlife West Nature Park
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To easily spot many native New Mexican species, Wildlife West Nature Park is the place to be. More than 20 species of animals can be viewed. All are rescued from accidents or bad living conditions and are unable to live in the wild on their own. Don’t miss getting an up-close look at wolves, bears, raptors and more.
Open Space Visitor Center
The Open Space Visitor Center, on the city’s Westside, has indoor and outdoor viewing areas to watch wildlife all year. During the fall and winter, sandhill cranes and other migratory birds flock to the area. The center also offers interpretive exhibits and information about Albuquerque’s Open Space program.
Pino and Domingo Baca Trails
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Both beginning at the Elena Gallegos Picnic Area, the Pino and Domingo Baca trails take hikers into the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for coyotes, raccoons and pack rats. Deer, bears and mountain lions are also known to wander the area.
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge
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Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for birding. Spot everything from American kestrels to egrets. The refuge serves as a slice of wildland in an urban area to protect native species and offers a place for people to recreate and get out in nature.
