We did more in New Mexico than just look for birds. We visited the Pecos National Historic Park, after leaving Las Vegas, in the hills before Santa Fe. The Pecos Indians created a pueblo of about 2,000 people that traded with the Apache to the east and Indian farmers to the west . In 1541 the Spanish arrived and it was not long after that that the Franciscan friars came. Of course what is left is mainly a Catholic church…

It was an interesting stop; a wonderful museum in the visitor center, a Ranger guided tour of the site and amazing adobe structures to explore.

We also stopped at Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge. We had thought we might see some birds but it really is for animals. We arrived on the day that they had an open house. It included many events including archery! They are trying to reintroduce the Gunnison’s  prairie dog which is a primary food for the local hawks,,,

We had a nice walk through the park, enjoying the plants and landscape.