Grant County offers a half-dozen major habitat types for birds — and birders — to enjoy. From mountain spruce and pine above 7000 feet to Sonoran desert, the county offers an incredible range of habitat and bird species. For a great summary of birding sites in each, visit the Southwest New Mexico Audubon Society's locales page.
A wide array of bird fauna is found on the Gila National Forest.
Approximately 339 bird species have been sighted. Of these, 166 species are known to breed on the forest, 114 are more-or-less regular non-breeders, and 57 are considered to be casual or accidental. The numerous species of birds found is largely related to the diverse ecological habitat found on the Gila and location on a migratory flight path.
In the forest, vegetation types range from spruce/fir forest high in the Mogollon Mountains to desert scrub and remnant grassland in the lower Burro Mountains. Small expanses of grassland are scattered in the higher ranges.
The Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race takes place in race stages across Grant County. Many outstanding locations allow visitors to watch the riders race past, including the Downtown Silver City Criterium. The 21st Annual Tour of the Gila bicycle race, May 2 to 6, brings hundreds of the world's best bicycle riders and teams to Grant County.
With support from state, county and local government agencies, Grant County businesses and thousands of spectators every year, the Tour of the Gila has grown in stature and prize money to become one of the premier destinations on the bicycle racing
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Silver City, New Mexico
Population: 10,000
Median Home Price: $180,000
Average Annual Precipitation: 15 inches
Average Temps: July - 87; Jan - 24
Dark, billowing clouds that cover Silver City on summer afternoons cast ominous shadows across the mountains and plains, presenting a variety of multihued colors in the evening's brilliant sunset. More than three million acres of the Gila wilderness awaits the hiker, mountain biker, camper, or wildlife observer, and plenty of lakes are strewn about the gorgeous desert terrain. The landscape draws people here, but its low property taxes, attractive housing costs, a state-of-the-art health center, and top-notch university keep them here. The silver rush has dissipated, and nowadays, residents enjoy jazz and blues festivals, the Big Ditch Arts Fest, and the Gila Bird and Nature Fest. One of the more popular attractions to Silver City is Western New Mexico University, offering vibrant cultural activities as well as an extensive continuing education program, including Elderhostel, directed toward mature adults. Mild temperatures, first-rate educational opportunities, and a stunning environment make Silver City a perfect spot for the 50+ population.