If you’ve ever driven the stretch of I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson, you’ve likely seen the signs—or at least the towering ostrich illustrations—beckoning travelers to pull off near Picacho Peak for a little roadside adventure. On a recent trip to Tombstone, we finally gave in to curiosity and stopped at the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch. And let me tell you, it was worth the detour.
A Petting Zoo, but With Personality
This isn’t your typical petting zoo. From the moment we stepped in with Sam, we were greeted by a full-blown animal buffet of personalities—each one eager for a snack. Admission came with a generous selection of feed for the various animals: deer, goats, donkeys, ostriches (of course), and even stingrays. Yes, stingrays in the desert.
But the lorikeet exhibit absolutely stole the show.
Armed with tiny cups of sugary nectar, we stepped into a brightly colored bird haven—and instantly became human landing pads. These vibrant, playful birds wasted no time swarming us. They landed on our arms, shoulders, and even our heads, all chirping excitedly like we were the best thing to happen to them all day. It was chaotic, hilarious, and oddly heartwarming. Sam couldn’t stop laughing, and neither could we.
Well-Cared Critters and Summer Smiles
What really stood out to us—aside from the rainbow birds in our personal space—was how well cared for all the animals appeared. In a state where triple-digit heat is the norm for much of the year, it was reassuring to see shady spots, clean enclosures, and plenty of fresh water for the animals. Every critter we encountered looked healthy, happy, and genuinely excited for visitors (or maybe just the snacks—we’ll take it either way).
If you’re road-tripping through southern Arizona and looking for a quirky, family-friendly stop to stretch your legs and make a few new furry (or feathered) friends, Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is a must-visit. Just prepare to leave with a few feathers in your hair, a phone full of hilarious photos, and a whole lot of smiles.