Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary
The Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary is an idyllic place if you’re seeking for a calm retreat in the midst of the activity of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It is the ideal destination to leave the city and immerse oneself in the tranquil beauty of the American Southwest, with 135 acres of natural habitat.
The Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary was established in 1968 and is named after the great American painter Randall Davey, who resided in Santa Fe for many years. Davey was also an ardent conservationist, and in the 1950s he donated his historic home and studio to the National Audubon Society with the goal of preserving the area and its unique species for future generations.
The center offers a variety of events and activities for guests of all ages, ranging from educational programs and workshops to guided nature walks and bird-watching tours. Around 190 species of birds, 50 species of animals, and innumerable kinds of plants, trees, and wildflowers call it home.
The Bird and Butterfly Garden is one of the most popular attractions at the center, as it is designed to attract and sustain a variety of avian and insect life. Here, you can observe hummingbirds, finches, woodpeckers, and numerous other bird species, in addition to monarch butterflies and other pollinators. There are also various bird-feeding stations located throughout the garden, allowing for an up-close look at the birds in their natural environment.
The historic Randall Davey House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is another must-see at the site. The house, constructed in the early 1900s, has been magnificently kept and renovated, and it provides a fascinating view into the life and work of one of Santa Fe’s most renowned artists. Throughout the year, the home also hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and special events.
The center’s large network of paths is a dream come true for individuals who enjoy hiking and enjoying the outdoors. More than four miles of paths wind through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area and many opportunities to spot wildlife. The Nature Trail, the Canyon Trail, and the Upper Meadow Trail are some of the most well-liked routes.
Be sure to check out the Nature Play Area, a fun and interactive environment meant to spark children’s curiosity and creativity if you are visiting the center with children. Here, children can climb, construct, dig, and explore to their hearts’ delight while learning about the surrounding natural environment.
The Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary is firmly committed to conservation and education, in addition to its many attractions and activities. The staff and volunteers of the center work tirelessly to maintain the area’s natural habitat and animals, and they offer a variety of educational programs and tools to help visitors understand the significance of conservation and environmental stewardship.
The Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary is a must-visit location for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a tranquil getaway in the center of Santa Fe. It is a true gem of the American Southwest because of its stunning landscapes, rich history, and dedication to conservation and education.