DIFFICULTY LEVEL: BEGINNER
Rattlesnake Springs. You want a desert oasis? This is a desert oasis. Managed by Carlsbad Caverns National Park, these spring-fed ponds and streams were once an extensive marsh. Although greatly modified by human hands, this is a prime spot where northern and southern species meet up. Summer tanagers, buntings, orioles, and verdins are easy to spot in this cottonwood-shaded picnic area. nmmag.us/rattlesnake-springs
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Morgan Lake. This warm-water reservoir serves as a vital stop for migratory birds and birds that overwinter in the region. Located immediately north of the Four Corners Power Plant, near Farmington, the lake’s rare shoreline habitat makes it the perfect place to find western grebe, Clark’s grebe, wood duck, osprey, black skimmers, and black-legged kittiwake. nmmag.us/morganlake
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Gila National Forest. Because the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest overlaps several ecosystems, the region features high-elevation lakes, such as Lake Roberts, and a variety of habitats that are great places to spot aquatic birds. The Gila is full of spotted owls, acorn woodpeckers, flycatchers, and vireos. Plus, it’s the only place in the world where you can see a dashed ringtail dragonfly. fs.usda.gov/gila