Forest fire and flood of 2005 certainly changed the desert landscape along Forest Road 24 in the Tonto National Forest north of Carefree. Despite the miles of dead saguaros and mesquites 34 species were seen mainly among green shrubs or cottonwood habitat.

Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Northern Flickers were the most numerous birds. At Rackensack Wash Cassin's Vireo and Sage Thrasher were among the specialties of the day. Several Dark-eyed (Oregon) Juncos fed at the Camp Creek settlement where a  Rufouscrowned Sparrow hid along the road.

Colorful Western Bluebirds, Lesser Goldfinches and Cedar Waxwings were a welcome greeting at the Seven Springs picnic area.

The species seen: Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Greater Roadrunner, Hummingbird (sp.), Belted Kingfisher, Gila Woodpecker, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Western Wood-Pewee, Black Phoebe, Say's Phoebe, Western Kingbird, Cassin's Vireo, Common Raven, Bridled Titmouse, Verdin, Cactus Wren, Canyon Wren, Rock Wren, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Western Bluebird, Sage Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Phainopepla, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, Lesser Goldfinch, White-breasted Nuthatch and Pygmy Nuthatch.

Participants were: Pat Dumbacher, Barb Meding, Donna Smith, Chuck Richard and Eleanor Campbell, leader.