Superior — One sure sign of Spring is the March return of the seasonal flock of turkey vultures at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.

It's official, they’re back — in fact, 35 were tallied as the flock soared and circled in a ‘kettle’ formation last week, allowing Arizona Game & Fish avian expert Troy Corman to get the year’s first official count.

On Saturday, March 25 Join ASU professor Dave Pearson for a morning observing and celebrating the famous big, black birds. Events are included with $12.50 admission ($5 ages 5-12, and free for kids younger than age 5); and free to Arboretum annual members and also AZ state parks pass-holders.

Early-birders can arrive anytime after 7 a.m. for an hour of ‘Vulture Viewing’ while the famous flock perches on volcanic cliffs of Magma Ridge before they depart to spend their morning circling the skies above Pinal County.

Pearson returns by popular demand as the Arboretum’s special guest ‘Vulture-ologist’ stationed at a convenient observation area from 7 to 8:30 a.m. answering questions and sharing his appreciation for the soaring scavengers until the vultures take to the skies — typically by 8:30 a.m.

Dr. Pearson and other guides will lead a bird walk through the gardens at 8:30 a.m. in search of other birds, mammals and critters. Arrive later that morning and you can still see a real, live turkey vulture — thanks to the wildlife rehab volunteers with Fallen Feathers (please consider carrying some cash as you walk into the gardens — make a donation to Fallen Feathers and help support the nonprofit, volunteer organization).

Read about other guided tours and Arboretum events at cals.arizona.edu/bta.