Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory News

New Web site on the way

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 20:10:16 GMT

SABO is migrating all of its content and services to a spiffy new Web site, but the process is proving to be much more complicated than we were hoping. The main site is currently offline while we try to resolve various issues with our current (but not future) Web host. We appreciate your patience!

Hummingbird banding at Casa de San Pedro Sept. 26

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 20:14:12 GMT

The hummingbird banding session this Friday, September 26 at Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast is back on the calendar. Our hosts have made good progress in cleanup following serious flooding last week and will be ready for both guests and visitors by Friday.

The Saturday session at the San Pedro House will also go on as planned (barring another hurricane!). Last Saturday's session produced large numbers of Black-chinned Hummingbirds, a surprise juvenile male Allen's, and an adaptable young male Rufous (see photos below). Hummingbird "adoptions" are again available for a contribution of $25.


Note the very narrow outer tail feathers, the most visible characteristic separating Allen's from Rufous in female and juvenile male plumages.	The tiny white spheres covering the forehead of this young male Rufous are pollen grains from the native Trans-Pecos Morning-glory, which has tiny scarlet flowers that remain open all day.

VIDEO: Flooding in Cave Creek Canyon

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 16:32:15 GMT

From YouTube, video of flooding in Cave Creek Canyon by Portal resident Deborah Johnson:

ALERT: Heavy rains cause road closures

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 20:44:48 GMT

Heavy rainfall from former Hurricane Odile has resulted in some short-term access issues around southeastern Arizona, including Ramsey Canyon Preserve, the Hereford Road bridge across the San Pedro River, Blue Haven Road through Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, Portal Road into Cave Creek Canyon, and Frontier Road in the southwestern Sulphur Springs Valley. Back roads in many areas, including the Sulphur Springs Valley, may be impassable to vehicles without high clearance and 4-wheel drive. If you plan to visit any of these areas over the next few days, have an alternate destination and/or route planned and respect all barricades and signage.

UPDATE: This weekend's hummingbird banding session at Casa de San Pedro B&B has been canceled. The inn's grounds and building experienced serious flooding as the river crested at near-record levels.

Hummingbird adoptions available again!

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 22:00:02 GMT

SABO's very popular hummingbird adoption program is up and running again! With a contribution of $25, visitors to our hummingbird banding stations can sponsor a banded hummingbird and help support our ongoing research and outreach efforts. Adoptions include a personalized certificate and notifications if the bird is re-encountered.

Hummingbird banding season ends soon! Check our Calendar of Events for upcoming banding sessions.

Web site outage expected tonight

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 14:06:48 GMT

The company that provides SABO's membership and event services will conduct a service upgrade tonight that will result in this portion of the Web site being inaccessible for up to 10 hours. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Hummingbird banding May 31 at the San Pedro House rescheduled

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 23 May 2014 10:48:23 GMT

Another scheduling conflict requires us to reschedule the Saturday, May 31 banding session at the San Pedro House to Sunday June. 1. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and support.

Hummingbird banding May 24 at the San Pedro House CANCELED

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 16 May 2014 13:35:54 GMT

The May 24 hummingbird banding session at the San Pedro House has been canceled due to a scheduling conflict. We apologize for any inconvenience that may result from this change.

Brown fire contained, closures lifted

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 16:26:02 GMT

Thanks to the efforts of wildland fire crews and recent rains, the Brown fire in the northern Huachuca Mountains east of Sierra Vista is now 100% contained. Ramsey Canyon Preserve and Huachuca Canyon have reopened.

The storms that helped to douse the Brown fire produced lightning that started a grassland fire north of the Huachucas, but that fire has also been contained.

Bird on!

Fire closure updates

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 11:08:29 GMT

Areas currently closed in the vicinity of the Brown fire:

Garden Canyon (Ft. Huachuca)
Huachuca Canyon (Ft. Huachuca)
Brown Canyon Ranch (north of Ramsey Canyon Rd.) and trails in the area (USFS)
Ramsey Canyon Preserve (TNC)

High winds are predicted today. We wish the fire crews success in their efforts to contain the blaze.

Fire season has begun in southeastern Arizona

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 19:54:03 GMT

The 2014 fire season has begun in southeastern Arizona. Fire crews are battling the Brown Canyon fire, a small (<100 acres) human-caused blaze on the western slope of the Huachuca Mountains.

This fire is far from populated areas and popular birding destinations and unlikely to cause serious problems for residents or visitors, but high fire danger and/or future fires may result in closures of public lands. We will do our best to keep the birding community informed about closures and other safety advisories from public lands agencies.

Updates on wildfires throughout Arizona are available on Inciweb.

(Photo of fire retardant drop by Tom Wood.)

Spring activities filling fast!

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 22 Feb 2014 17:53:21 GMT

SABO's slate of spring activities are on the calendar and filling up fast! Make plans now to join us for walks, owl prowls, hummingbird banding sessions, and Fiesta de las Aves!

Sandhill Crane census results are in!

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 17:40:50 GMT

Wings Over Willcox Chairman Homer Hansen reports that the annual census conducted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department found 26,616 Sandhill Cranes in the Sulphur Springs Valley, including 22,600 at Whitewater Draw wildlife area.

The number of cranes this winter is down from 29,633 in 2012-13. The highest population ever recorded in the valley was over 40,000 in 2009-10.

SABO's weekly Whitewater Wetland Walks and Crane Watches at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area will take a break this weekend while we help with the Wings Over Willcox festival but will resume next Sunday (January 26) and continue through Sunday, February 23. No registration is required for the crane watches; to register for a walk, please visit our Calendar of Events.

Paton yard to become official birder haven

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 13:57:12 GMT

Tucson Audubon Society, American Bird Conservancy, and Victor Emanuel Nature Tours have announced the purchase of the world-famous "Patons' Birder Haven" in Patagonia. This joint fundraising effort saves the popular birding destination from the same fate as the Spofford yard in Portal, which closed to the public after the death of its owner and host, retired ornithologist Sally Spofford. The site will be managed by the Tucson Audubon Society. Read more about it at the Arizona Daily Star:

Paton's Birder Haven to be sold

Hummingbird banding season ends, winter activities just around the corner

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 02:29:14 GMT

Hummingbird banding is almost over for another year (the last sessions for the season are this Friday and Saturday), but we'll be adding Whitewater Walks and other winter activities to the schedule shortly!

Letter to the Arizona Daily Star

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 26 Jul 2013 01:34:14 GMT

To the editor:

The recent article about a new "nectar" product for hummingbird feeders contained incorrect and misleading information that has needlessly alarmed many hummingbird enthusiasts in southern Arizona.

We want to assure the Star's readers that homemade solutions of white granulated sugar in water have a decades-long track record as a safe and effective way to attract and feed hummingbirds. Wild hummingbirds that have fed on sugar water every summer of their lives have lived up to 12 years, far longer than was once thought possible, so white sugar is hardly "cutting their lives short." It does not "wear out their livers and kidneys," give them diabetes, or rot their teeth.

White granulated sugar is sucrose, a natural plant sugar that is the main ingredient (next to water) in the nectar of hummingbird-pollinated flowers. It is also the main ingredient in the product touted in the article, despite the entrepreneurs' dire warnings about "the harmful effects of white sugar on hummingbirds."

Cleaning feeders regularly, eliminating outdoor pesticide use, keeping cats indoors, and planting nectar-producing flowers are the most important steps you can take to make sure your hummingbird neighbors live long, healthy lives.

Sheri L. Williamson
Director, Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory
Author, Peterson Field Guide to Hummingbirds
Bisbee, AZ

AGFD coauthors unprecedented international recovery plan for endangered Thick-billed Parrots

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 13 Jul 2013 03:43:23 GMT

News from the Arizona Game and Fish Department:

One of only two species of parrots historically found in the U.S., the Thick-billed Parrot, will benefit from a recovery plan coauthored by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The plan aims to grow the bird's numbers by focusing recovery on protecting, managing and restoring mature and old-growth conifer forests in Mexico.

The plan was published July 1 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and represents the first time that the U.S. has adopted another country's endangered species recovery plan. The U.S. recovery plan closely follows the Mexican Thick-billed Parrot recovery plan with additional required elements added by the Service because the parrot is now found only in Mexico. Species experts recommend that recovery efforts concentrate on those populations already established in Mexico, where relatively large contiguous parcels of suitable habitat still exist within the birds' core range. Potential habitat in the U.S., once part of the northern edge of the parrot's historical range, is more fragmented and less suitable.

"After extensive review, it was apparent that we had a better chance of restoring populations of Thick-billed Parrot in Mexico rather than attempting to reintroduce the species with a cost-prohibitive captive breeding program in the U.S. and where habitat is more limited," says Larry Voyles, director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department and co-signor of the plan.

In developing the plan, biologists considered a captive breeding program in the U.S. that would provide birds for release. However, the estimated initial cost of $25 million over 15 years was determined to be prohibitive with little chance of success. Attempts to re-establish the bird in Arizona between 1986 and 1993 were unsuccessful partially due to the captive-raised birds reduced ability to survive in the wild.

"It just makes more sense to recover the birds in Mexico where we know they can exist and reproduce rather than try to establish a breeding population in Arizona where conditions are less suitable for the parrots," says Larry Riley, assistant director for Game and Fish’s wildlife management.

The Thick-billed Parrot disappeared from the U.S. more than 70 years ago. Historically, the species was known to visit southeast Arizona and possibly northwest New Mexico, but a breeding population of birds could never be confirmed. The most recent estimates indicate that at a minimum there are just over 2,000 Thick-billed Parrots, all in the states of Chihuahua and northwest Durango in Mexico.

Learn about high country hummingbirds at July 27 festival

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 11 Jul 2013 20:52:24 GMT

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is again offering a unique opportunity for people to learn more about Arizona’s hummingbirds at the 10th Annual High Country Hummers Festival. On Saturday, July 27, the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory's banding team will capture and band hummingbirds at the department’s Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area in eastern Arizona. The event is free and open to the public.

This is a fantastic opportunity for people to get up close and personal with these flying jewels. Observers will be able to interact with the team as they capture, measure, weigh and band birds.

This free, one-of-a-kind program will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at noon. Costs are underwritten by the department's Heritage Fund. Supported by Arizona lottery dollars, the Heritage Fund is dedicated to the education, conservation and enhancement of Arizona's wildlife, biological diversity, scenic wonders and environment.

Other fun programs will also be offered at the wildlife area that day. There will be educational exhibits featuring live hawks and owls. You can even get your photo taken with one. Visitors can view a presentation on hummingbird natural history.

At 8:30 a.m., department staff will discuss and instruct on how to photograph hummingbirds. Be sure to bring your camera and a tripod for this hands-on activity. Staff will also lead a "birding basics" program, including identification tips and technological tools available to aid in learning about our avian visitors.

Visitors are welcome to explore the visitor center's interpretive displays on wildlife conservation, habitats and prehistoric culture. Breakfast and lunch concessions will be provided by the Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce.

"We encourage visitors to come prepared to spend most of the morning outdoors with potential of some summer rain," says Bruce Sitko, spokesman in the department's Pinetop office. "It’s a good idea to bring a camera, as there will be plenty of great photo opportunities. We also require that pets be kept on a leash."

To get to the wildlife area, take Highway 191 from Eagar toward Alpine two miles to the signed turnoff at the top of the first hill. Drive south five miles to the property on a gravel road suitable for cars.For more information, visit the High Country Hummers Web page.

Last Owl Prowl of the season this Thursday

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 19 May 2013 19:55:28 GMT

Because we can't get enough of our wonderful owls, we're offering one more Carr Canyon Owl Prowl this spring. The walk will be this Thursday evening, May 23, under a bright, waxing moon. Register now!

Happy retirement to Johnnie and Audrey Eskue!

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 03 May 2013 15:48:17 GMT

We'd like to wish longtime business members Johnnie and Audrey Eskue of Birders Vista B&B a happy retirement and thank them for their many years of support of SABO's work on behalf of birds and birders.

The San Pedro River and SABO on Arizona Illustrated

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 14:21:50 GMT

Hummingbird activity heating up

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 13:42:50 GMT

Look who visited one of SABO's hummingbird banding stations on the San Pedro River this week: A male Calliope! Hummingbird activity is on the rise, with more species and more individuals appearing at feeding stations all over southeastern Arizona. Our banding team is capturing Rufous in record numbers, while the local Black-chinneds are already on their first nests of the season.

If you'd like to join us, check SABO's Calendar of Events for upcoming banding sessions and other hummingbird-focused events.

San Pedro River to be featured on Tucson PBS affiliate

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 16:03:41 GMT

Tucson PBS affiliate KUAT will feature the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area and SABO on its news magazine Arizona Illustrated this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

Welcome new business member: Down By The River Bed and Breakfast

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 22:18:32 GMT

Join us in welcoming SABO's newest business members, Mike and Angie Hug of Down By The River Bed and Breakfast in St. David, Arizona. The B&B is located on the west side of the San Pedro River between Benson and Tombstone, near the northern end of the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area and not far from Kartchner Caverns State Park.

E-mail problems - apologies for the inconvenience

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 14:13:00 GMT

SABO is experiencing an e-mail outage today. Our host assures us that it should be fixed shortly. If you are trying to contact us and getting bounced messages, please bear with us.

AZGFD needs help monitoring Harris's Hawks

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 20:52:41 GMT

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is looking for help from the birding community in monitoring Harris's Hawks. From Research Biologist Scott Blackman:

The AZ Game and Fish Department is about to undertake a Harris's hawk nest location and monitoring project across the range of this species within AZ. As this raptor is very conspicuous and inhabits many urban areas it is probably likely that many of you have observed nesting activity across the state. We would appreciate any Harris's hawk suspected nesting activity observations and location data if available. This information will be used to supplement our current database and guide upcoming surveys and nest monitoring.

Due to the potentially sensitive nature of this data please send any information to my AZGFD email account: Sblackman@azgfd.gov

Thanks to all that are willing to participate in this request for information.

SABO needs your help

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 19:30:00 GMT

After 17 years of serving the birds of southeastern Arizona and the people who care about them, SABO has reached a crossroads. We have cut back everywhere we can—cutting staff and programs, liquidating assets—yet we find ourselves facing our own version of the "fiscal cliff."

This is our first major fund drive, which we acknowledge is part of the problem. Like you, we get a lot of requests for help from worthy causes, sometimes several per year from the same organizations. We've always felt that time and resources spent on fundraising would be better spent on science, education, and advocacy and have depended on the work we do to speak for itself.

The hard truth is that it takes money to sustain any organization, and as other sources of funding have diminished or disappeared we've come to depend more on our members and donors to make up the difference. If you think what we are doing is important, please consider becoming a member, renewing your existing membership at a higher level, or making a contribution to help ensure SABO's continued survival as a voice for Arizona's birds and their habitats. We (and the birds) thank you.

2012 year-end report

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:31:49 GMT

As we near the end of SABO's 17th year of operation, we'd like to share with you some of our accomplishments in 2012:

We banded nearly 600 hummingbirds of eight species at three sites and recaptured 100 birds from past years. Once again, we were able to document amazing longevity in these tiny dynamos and learn even more about their life histories. Perhaps as important as the birds encountered were the approximately 2000 people who watched our banding operations, learned about hummingbirds, conservation, and science, and took away indelible memories. Nearly half of those people attended the High Country Hummers event at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area in northern Arizona, sponsored by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Our banding studies allowed us to collaborate with a University of Arizona researcher to provide material for mapping the first complete genome of a hummingbird.
The spring was filled with morning walks on the San Pedro River and in the Huachuca Mountains as well as our popular "Owl Prowls." Volunteer Erika Wilson continues to lead the year-round walks at the Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park on behalf of SABO.
This spring, we also documented habitat damage in upper Miller Canyon caused by the City of Tombstone and monitored nesting Spotted Owls to prevent them becoming a casualty of the city’s on-going dispute over water rights.
We continued to assist Arizona Game and Fish by providing visitor activities at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area. This year, in addition to our traditional walks and Sandhill Crane Watch programs, AGFD invited us to participate in a Sandhill Crane workshop. The event was tremendously popular, filling the tiny bunkhouse at Whitewater Draw to capacity. AGFD can’t spare the funds to offer it again in 2013, but we’re committed to continuing our usual winter programs and hope to reschedule the next crane workshop for 2014.
We also continue to support the Southwest Wings Birding & Nature Festival and Wings Over Willcox, the longest-running birding festivals in Arizona, and to coordinate Christmas bird counts in Elfida and St. David.
Our daily activities include serving as a resource for birding travelers and answering hummingbird-related questions from literally around the world. Following last year’s wildfires, we have also been documenting the changing habitats and birds of the Huachuca and Chiricahua mountains and assuring birders that these beloved places are still worth visiting.

These activities are made possible by the generosity of SABO's members and donors, and we need your help to continue. Please take a moment to read about our winter fundraising drive and make a contribution to help ensure that SABO remains a voice for birds and the people who care about them.

Winter events are on the calendar!

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 22:52:49 GMT

SABO's Calendar of Events has been updated with Whitewater Wetland Walks, Sandhill Crane Watch programs, Hawk Stalk tours, and the ever popular Sparrow-phobics Anonymous workshop. We're looking forward to another "birdy" winter here in southeastern Arizona - join us!

Vote birds!

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 12:49:20 GMT

Show your support for birds in this election season and every season with SABO's retro campaign buttons and magnets! Choose from a statesmanlike Loggerhead Shrike or a presidential Lincoln's Sparrow. Better yet, promote birding bipartisanship with one of each! Both designs are also available as magnets, and 25% of your purchase will benefit SABO's conservation and outreach programs on behalf of birds and their habitats.

Thanks to SABO's Facebook friend Carl Bendorf for his suggestion to balance out out button selection.

Date changes for hummingbird banding in late September

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 19:28:13 GMT

To avoid conflicting with another event at the San Pedro House on September 22, we've moved that week's banding sessions up one day. The session at Casa de San Pedro B&B (open to SABO members by reservation and to Casa guests) will now be held on Thursday, September 20, and the San Pedro House session (open to the general public without reservations) be held on Friday, September 21.

Flooding injures campers in Carr Canyon, closes Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 16:55:45 GMT

Heavy rains in the Huachuca Mountains on Monday night washed out the Carr Reef Campground, injuring two campers, and damaged Ramsey Canyon Preserve.

The Nature Conservancy reports that Ramsey Canyon Preserve will be closed until further notice for recovery from a "significant flood event."

For updates on access to Carr Canyon and other parts of the Coronado National Forest within the Huachuca Mountains, contact the U.S. Forest Service Sierra Vista Ranger District at 520-378-0311. For updates on access to Ramsey Canyon Preserve, contact Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve at 520-394-2400.

Dine out this May and benefit SABO!

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 02 May 2012 21:07:51 GMT

Have you tried GoodDining? Members earn up to 6% of their bill as a donation for their favorite cause at over 10,000 participating restaurants nationwide, including the Outside Inn in Sierra Vista and more than 40 restaurants in Tucson. Better yet, new GoodDining members earn an additional $5 bonus donation when they join and dine in May during National Dine Out for Charity Month.

Sign up here:

GoodDining

Miller Canyon rises from the ashes

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 05:09:16 GMT

The Monument fire and its aftermath have changed Miller Canyon, but life is springing forth in new abundance. Bright verbenas and other wildflowers decorate slopes where the fire reduced the tree cover. The April 5 group enjoyed 22 species of birds and 14 species of butterflies.

New migrants are arriving daily, and the next scheduled Canyon Walk on April 26 should be excellent. Join us!

Trip reports in members section

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 22:50:55 GMT

For your trip planning and/or armchair birding pleasure, we're posting reports from recent field trips to the blog in the For Members Only section of the Web site. Log in with your member email address to read the latest reports.

Enjoy!

(Elf Owl in Carr Canyon by Tom Wood)

Welcome new Business Patron: Sunglow Ranch

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:04:19 GMT

A warm welcome to SABO's newest Business Patron, Sunglow Ranch, and its general manager Brooks Bradbury. Located on the western edge of the Chiricahua Mountains (overlooking the Sulphur Springs Valley), the ranch combines traditional western guest ranch activities with resort amenities. We look forward to meeting Brooks and exploring the ranch and its wildlife watching opportunities.

In Memoriam: May Kolbe

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:19:43 GMT

It is with deep sorrow that we report the passing on January 25 of longtime friend, neighbor, and SABO supporter May Kolbe. May and her husband Walter are known to the birding community as founders, owners, and hosts of the San Pedro River Inn.

May's kind and compassionate nature are reflected in her careers as a music teacher, a therapist working with emotionally disturbed children, and a healthcare administrator, including 15 years at the Copper Queen Hospital in Bisbee. She was also devoted to family; she and Walter celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on January 14.

We extend heartfelt condolences to Walter, their children Laura Nelson, Susan Kolbe, Becky Davis, and Daniel Kolbe, and all of the Kolbe family on their heartbreaking loss.

We're back!

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 03:28:13 GMT

After much technical wrangling during transfer of our domain name to a new host, SABO's Web pages and e-mail are all working again. We apologize for any inconvenience the outage may have caused. If you are still experiencing problems, please let us know.

Web site outage possible Friday

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:16:06 GMT

SABO's Web site may be unavailable briefly over the next 24 hours as we conduct some domain administration. We apologize for any inconvenience.

SABO is now accepting payments through Google Checkout

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:27:19 GMT

SABO is testing Google Checkout (now a part of Google Wallet) for accepting online payments for memberships, donations, and activity fees. The transition should be seamless for existing Google Checkout/Google Wallet users. If you don't yet have a Google account or are not yet using Checkout/Wallet, you'll have an opportunity to sign up when you click a link to join SABO, renew an existing membership, make a donation, or register for an event. We welcome payments of dues and fees for tours and workshops via "snail mail," and payment "at the door" is welcome for most walks.

Since we are unable to offer a choice of online payment services, we appreciate your feedback on how Google Checkout meets your payment needs before we make a final decision on the switch.

Happy Holidays!

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 18:29:46 GMT

Wishing all of SABO's members, supporters, friends, and colleagues a "berry" bright and merry holiday season!

Holiday Hawk Stalk now open for general registration

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:02:26 GMT

A special holiday edition of our Hawk Stalk tour of the Sulphur Springs Valley is now open for general registration! This tour on Thanksgiving Friday departs from Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast, convenient to Sierra Vista and Hereford.

For registration or more information, visit the Calendar of Events or go directly to the Holiday Hawk Stalk page.

Winter schedule now on line!

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:07:40 GMT

SABO's winter activities—Hawk Stalks, Whitewater Wetlands Walks, and the Sparrow-phobics Anonymous Mini-Workshop—have been added to the Calendar of Events. Special events include a Thanksgiving Friday Hawk Stalk starting from Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast and a New Year's Day Hawk Stalk for those inspired by the movie The Big Year. We'll look forward to seeing you this winter!

Phone problems - thanks for your patience

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:46:38 GMT

In the process of making a couple of money-saving changes to our phone service, Century Link caused SABO's number to ring to a disconnected line. The problem should be corrected by the middle of next week, but we expect to be unreachable by phone until then. In the meantime, please feel free to contact us by e-mail with questions about programs, trip planning, etc.

KAYTEE® Wild Bird Products sponsors Arizona Hummingbird Disaster Relief

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 02:23:50 GMT

In response to dramatic increases in hummingbird activity at feeders following wildfires in Arizona, KAYTEE® Wild Bird Products and Cedar Works® Feeders, both Central Garden and Pet Company brands, are shipping $50,000 of KAYTEE Hummingbird ElectroNectar™ Concentrate and Cedar Works Planter Hummingbird Feeders for distribution to area residents.

The sponsors hope is that encouraging more residents of the affected areas to feed hummingbirds will help to spread out uncomfortably concentrated populations and improve the birds' chances of survival until they return to Mexico for the winter. This will become even more important over the next few weeks as thousands of southbound migrants arrive in the state from as far north as southeastern Alaska.

SABO is directing the project and will distribute free feeders and nectar concentrate at hummingbird banding sessions, local farmers' markets, and the Southwest Wings Birding Festival. Southeastern Arizona residents should check the Calendar of Events for dates and locations where feeders and nectar will be available. For bird lovers in other parts of the country who would like to help, SABO is also accepting donations to support our ongoing hummingbird monitoring and public education programs and purchase of regionally appropriate nectar plants for distribution to private landowners in the affected areas. To contribute, please visit the Arizona Hummingbird Disaster Relief page.

For more on the project, see this post on the blog of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Welcome new Business Benefactor: Naturalist Journeys

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:31:00 GMT

We'd like to extend a big welcome and thanks to SABO's newest Business Benefactor, Peg Abbott of Naturalist Journeys. Peg, who is based right here in southeastern Arizona (Portal, in the Chiricahua Mountains) offers small group birding and natural history tours. We'll be working together on some cooperative tours led by SABO staff, including a Galapagos expedition in January 2012.

New photos of Monument fire, hummingbird banding

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 02:41:11 GMT

We've added a new photo album following the Monument fire plus some new photos to the hummingbird banding photo album. These and other albums are in the For Members Only section (login required).

Recent reports on birding in the Chiricahua Mountains

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 01:36:55 GMT

Though the Coronado National Forest is still closed, two first-hand reports on habitats and birding conditions in the Chiricahua Mountains are very encouraging:

Chiricahua Mountains Post-Horseshoe Two Fire birding report (a.k.a., The Search for Mexican Chickadees)

After the Fire: Cave Creek Canyon, Trogon Census

High Country Hummers event canceled for 2011

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:53:11 GMT

The Arizona Game & Fish Department has made the very difficult decision to cancel its popular High Country Hummers event for 2011, citing the potential for flash flooding following Wallow fire.

The Wallow, the largest wildfire in Arizona history, has affected over a half million acres (840 square miles). The cause is still under investigation but is believed to have been an escaped campfire.

According to Bruce Sitko, Information and Education Program Manager for AGFD, the fire severely burned several square miles of forest habitat in the Rudd Creek watershed south of Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area. The access road into the wildlife area crosses one of the affected drainages.

The U.S. Forest Service’s Burned Area Emergency Response Team is working to conduct aerial seeding with native grasses on severely burned slopes adjacent to communities and private properties throughout the White Mountains area. Until new vegetation becomes established and soils stabilize, severe flash flood events are expected across the landscapes impacted by the Wallow Fire. In the interim, AGFD staff will be keeping the Sipe Wildlife Area open to the public as much as possible by clearing the access road after each flooding event.

Our thoughts are with our AGFD and USFS colleagues and other residents of the White Mountains who have been affected by this fire, especially those who have lost their homes.

Fire update

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:55:26 GMT

The Horseshoe 2 Fire in the Chiricahua Mountains continues to burn, though mostly away from residences. It has reached 210,311 acres with 75% containment. Additional updates can be found at the Friends of Cave Creek Canyon page on Facebook.

The Monument Fire in the Huachuca Mountains is also still active, reaching 20,956 acres on the U.S. side with 27% containment plus another 1526 acres in Mexico. The fire jumped Hwy 92 at least twice and burned for a time into the grasslands. So far almost 50 homes have been lost to the fire, mainly in the areas of Stump and Ash canyons, and approximately 12,000 people have been evacuated so far. Today is shaping up to be another very bad day for fire crews, with strong winds (gusts to 50 mph) pushing the fire toward north toward the dense residential development along the southern edge of Sierra Vista. Scanner monitoring indicates that the fire has jumped to the Reef in Carr Canyon but has not yet entered Ramsey Canyon, and that additional structures are involved. Additional updates can be found on the Monument Fire page on Facebook.

The Antelope Fire on Fort Huachuca burned for only a few hours. It was started by a spark from a bulldozer blade hitting a rock and threatened the very dense residential development along Buffalo Soldier Trail on the southwest side of Sierra Vista. Areas affected appear to be mainly grassland and desert scrub that should recover very quickly once the "monsoon" rains begin.

The Wallow Fire in the White Mountains of east-central Arizona has become the largest fire in the state's history. It has affected 511,118 acres and is 44% contained.

A few cumulus clouds built up over the mountains and valleys yesterday afternoon, but no rain is predicted for the foreseeable future.

FIRE in Huachuca Mountains

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:03:27 GMT

The Sierra Vista Herald reports that a "massive" fire has broken out at Coronado National Memorial, at the southern end of the Huachuca Mountains. Residents in the vicinity of the memorial are being evacuated, and Ramsey Canyon Preserve has reportedly closed in response.

Specifics of Coronado National Forest closure

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 17:11:43 GMT

The closure order for the Coronado National Forest reads, in part:

PROHIBITIONS:
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited in the area described as ALL public lands under the jurisdiction and proclaimed boundaries of the Coronado National Forest in the Arizona Counties of Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Cochise and Graham, and the New Mexico County of Hidalgo County:

1. Going into or being upon the Coronado National Forest. 36 CFR 261.52(e).
2. Smoking in the Coronado National Forest. 36 CFR 261.52(c).

The temporary closure applies to all ranger districts of the Coronado National Forest, and includes visitor centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails, summer cabins, organization camps and all other public uses not exempted below. District Rangers may authorize use for specifically permitted activities through letters of specific exemption from the closure. Violation of the closure is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.

To accommodate public recreation use while meeting concerns over the unprecedented fire danger, the Forest will provide for limited use of Sabino Canyon and Mt. Lemmon in the exemptions below.

EXEMPTIONS:
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from Prohibition 1 only (exempt persons are still prohibited from smoking on the Coronado):

1. Persons with a Forest Service letter of permission specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or local law enforcement officer or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Forest Service employees in the performance of an official duty.
4. Owners and residents of private lands within the boundary of the Coronado National Forest.
5. Persons visiting the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center between the hours of dawn and dusk and persons using the paved Sabino Canyon Road between the hours of dawn and dusk.
6. Persons using the Catalina Highway for between the hours of dawn and dusk for non-stop access through the restricted area to the Ski Valley complex, the Palisades Visitor Center, and private lands at Summerhaven.
7. Persons travelling on State Route 83 (Sonoita Highway), State Route 82 (Nogales-Sonoita Highway), State Route 366 (Swift Trail), State Route 289 (Ruby Road), or County roads through the Coronado National Forest unless a road is specifically closed by the agency managing that road; all National Forest System roads are closed on the Coronado.

If noncompliance becomes an issue, exemptions to the closure may be changed. The closure will be lifted when significant moisture is received to reduce the wildfire threat to manageable levels.

We are waiting to hear from the local district ranger about acquiring a letter of permission to allow SABO to offer bird walks and personalized guide services in the Huachuca Mountains during the closure. If you have a birding trip scheduled over the next three weeks, please use the RSS subscription link at the top of this page for updates.

Wallow Fire bypasses buildings at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 16:50:03 GMT

A little good news from the fire front: The Arizona Game & Fish Departments reports that the Wallow Fire, now the second largest wildfire in the state's history, has bypassed the main buildings at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area near Springerville, thanks to the valiant efforts of department personnel. From the report:

On Monday evening, June 6, the fire burned into Sipe from the south. Department personnel had worked all day Monday to soak the buildings and surrounding grounds to deter structure loss. Once the fire hit the grassland flats, it laid down and went around the buildings to the east about 100 yards out. The meadows and mesas to the south, east and north were pretty well hit. None of the main structures were lost; however, the fire did consume the historic Nelson homestead cabin built in the late 1800s on the south end of the property.

Plenty of wildlife rode the Monday evening fire out at Sipe, including elk, pronghorn and numerous birds. On Tuesday morning, there were several ducks on the entrance pond with young-of-the-year. A hummingbird nest with mom and two babies survived the 50-plus mph winds on Monday evening. There were numerous hummingbirds flying and songbirds calling, and a red-tailed hawk was observed trying to catch a rabbit.

Sipe hosts the annual High Country Hummers event in late July. We'll post updates about the status of this year's event as soon as we hear from our colleagues at AGFD.

We send our sincere thanks to the firefighters and support staff battling this and other blazes and deepest sympathies to those who have lost homes to these disasters.

Welcome new business member: Twin Cottage Industries

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:33:57 GMT

The newest addition to our business member directory is Twin Cottage Industries, which employs young adults with mental illness and women with a need to work from home. Their bookmarks, eyeglass lanyards, key clips, zipper pulls, cell phone charms, and water bottle charms are all handcrafted in the U.S.A.

For several years co-owner Carol Amos has donated TCI merchandise to SABO for resale to support our hummingbird banding projects. In belated recognition of her generosity, we've added TCI to our list of In-Kind Contributors. Many thanks to Carol and her business partner (and identical twin sister) Kathy Getto for their continuing support!

BIRDING ALERT: Access to Beatty's Guest Ranch during forest closure

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 20:38:55 GMT

Tom Beatty, Sr. provided the following information on access to tehe guest ranch during the forest closure:

1. Only paying Guests with invoices will be allowed to drive up, with no stopping and no walking off our property. They must park on our property.

2. CAS Hummingbird Viewing Birders are considered paying Guest only if they have a CAS Viewing invoice that states the fees. You can email, with date and number of birders in party, and I will email an invoice.

I asked about this because I know some birders/tours that come from afar will be affected by the closure the most, and this should help them some.

3. Carr Canyon's gate will be locked at start of US Forest land/end of pavement.

4. Miller Canyon gate not firm yet, could only be signs or something moveable. I said I'm okay with a locked gate!

Note: All other people will be turned away and remember fines can be up to $5000.

BIRDING ALERT: Coronado National Forest to close June 9

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 20:17:18 GMT

The Coronado National Forest will close June 9 due to extreme fire danger. This includes popular birding locations such as Miller Canyon, Madera Canyon, and Sabino Canyon. The canyons on Fort Huachuca (Garden, Scheelite, Sawmill, Huachuca, etc.) will close as well, but The Nature Conservancy's Ramsey Canyon Preserve reportedly will remain open (but with no national forest access).

We're working on a plan to provide supervised access to the national forest for birders during the closure - watch for updates here and on SABO's Facebook page.

Coronado National Forest Home Page

FIRE in Chiricahua Mountains

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 09 May 2011 12:25:44 GMT

A wildfire (almost certainly of human origin) has broken out in the Chiricahua Mountains. The town of Portal has been evacuated, and all or most of the popular birding areas in and near Cave Creek Canyon are expected to be closed. The fire is so new that it hasn't been posted to the Coronado National Forest home page, but it is listed on InciWeb as the "Horseshoe Two" fire. The fire does not appear to be threatening Chiricahua National Monument at this time, but closures of forest roads may affect access to Rustler Park and Barfoot Park.

For updates, visit the Coronado National Forest Home Page, the Horseshoe Two page at InciWeb, and the Chiricahua National Monument Home Page.

Birding update: Changes in access to Ash Canyon Bed & Breakfast

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:22:08 GMT

We have added the following critically important update to SABO's Guide to Birding Hot Spots:

On April 12, 2011, the Cochise County Board of Supervisors revoked a previously issued business permit for the wildlife-viewing operation at Ash Canyon B&B, based on objections from owners of several neighboring properties. The site remains open to day visitors (as well as overnight guests) on a donation basis but is currently limited to 6 normal passenger vehicles at a time. No RVs or buses are allowed, there is no overflow parking, and parking is prohibited along Spring Road and Turkey Track Road. If you arrive to find all parking spaces filled, you must leave and return later. Visitors are advised to carry precise directions to the site to avoid getting lost. Do not approach neighbors for directions or use private driveways as turnarounds.

BREAKING NEWS: SPRNCA to reopen, hummingbird banding rescheduled

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 13:56:44 GMT

With the federal budget crisis averted (at least for now), the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is scheduled to reopen on Sunday, April 10.

SABO's weekly hummingbird banding session at the San Pedro House has been rescheduled for Monday, April 11, from 4 to 6 p.m. Barring unforeseen circumstances, the rest of the spring season will go on as scheduled. Please see SABO's Calendar of Events for the complete schedule.

April 9 hummingbird banding session CANCELED

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 23:25:01 GMT

A weekend closure of the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area has forced the cancellation of this week's banding session.

For additional schedule updates, please subscribe to this page using the RSS link.

Fiesta de las Aves activities ready for registration!

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 18:32:46 GMT

Activities for Fiesta de las Aves, May 2-7, are now up on the Calendar of Events and ready for registration. This year's schedule includes an additional walk on the San Pedro River, departing from the San Pedro House, in additon to favorites such as the Hummingbird Field Clinic (Thursday), Huachuca Canyon Walk (Friday), and Cienega & Grasslands Tour (Saturday). Join us for a great week celebrating migration!

Government shutdown would cancel hummingbird banding sessions

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:48:03 GMT

If Congress is unable to reach an agreement on the federal budget, forcing a government shutdown, SABO's weekly hummingbird banding sessions on the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (San Pedro House) will be canceled for the duration of the shutdown.

Please contact your Senators and Representatives to encourage them to come to an agreement that will head off the pending government shutdown and keep all of our public agencies, including the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Forest Service, working for the American people.

The Tucson tragedy

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Like most Americans, we were devastated by the tragedy that took the lives of six fellow Arizonans and harmed so many others.

May the families and friends of the lost find peace and comfort in their memories and the caring of the community.

May the skill of some of Arizona's finest physicians, nurses, and technicians speed the healing of the wounded, and bring them back to us whole in body and mind.

May the heroes who risked their own lives to save others become an example for our nation and the world.

And may the investigation lead to understanding and prevention of such heinous acts, that no more innocent lives will be lost or shattered.

Best wishes for the New Year

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 05:40:35 GMT

We'd like to thank all our members, donors, volunteers, and partners for their support in 2010 and wish you all the very best for 2011!

May the beauty of nature brighten every day of the coming year.

Business member update

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 15:14:05 GMT

Many thanks to renewing business member Cafe ROKA in Bisbee, Arizona, one of SABO's earliest business members, for its continuing support of our efforts on behalf of southeastern Arizona's birds and their habitats!

Also a belated welcome to SABO's newest business member, the Yuma Visitors Bureau and Information Center. If you're looking for assistance in planning a trip to southwestern Arizona, the folks at the YVB are there to help.

Wish List: Angled-eyepiece spotting scope and heavy-duty tripod

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:02:21 GMT

SABO's winter birding activities begin in less than six weeks, and we are still in need of a replacement for our old angled-eyepiece spotting scope and tripod.

If you have a gently used angled-eyepiece scope and/or heavy-duty tripod that you'd be willing to donate or connections with an optics manufacturer or retailer who would be willing to help, please let us know.

Winter calendar of events shaping up

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 23:00:27 GMT

SABO's winter calendar of events is beginning to take shape, with Hawk Stalks, Whitewater Wetlands Walks, and Sandhill Crane Watches. The latter two activities have moved to Sunday to encourage more family participation. Weekday walks and bus tours will still be available to groups. We've tentatively scheduled two longer events this winter: a "Sparrow-phobics Anonymous" mini-workshop February 12-13, and a week-long winter birding tour February 20-26. If you're interested in either of these, please drop us a note at sabo@sabo.org.

The next few weeks are traditionally the most challenging of the year for SABO from an economic standpoint. If you're planning on joining us for one or more activities this winter, your prepaid advance reservations will be much appreciated to help us get through this lean season.

New video of Spotted Owls on YouTube and Facebook

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:01:19 GMT

A video of a pair of Mexican Spotted Owls preening each other is available for viewing on SABO's YouTube channel and Facebook page. The video was taken on last Thursday's Canyon Walk in Miller Canyon.

For a schedule of upcoming walks and other activities, please visit the Calendar of Events.

Liberty Wildlife to be inducted into Arizona Outdoor Hall of Fame

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 16:01:13 GMT

Congratulations to our friends and colleagues at Liberty Wildlife on the organization's forthcoming induction into the Arizona Outdoor Hall of Fame. The inductees are being honored for outstanding contributions and service that have benefited Arizona's wildlife and their habitats.The other honorees are William Cordasco, president of Babbitt Ranches and the Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Foundation, Michael M. Golightly, three-term member of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, and the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club. The ceremony will take place at the Wildlife for Tomorrow Foundation's annual Outdoor Hall of Fame banquet on Aug. 28.

Business member update

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 17:31:42 GMT

Many thanks to renewing business members Tony Grzywa and Tim Hurst of Arizona Sunshine Tours & 3 Canyons Transit Co. and Johnnie and Audrey Eskue of Birders Vista Bed and Breakfast for their continuing support of SABO's efforts on behalf of the birds of southeastern Arizona and the landscapes we share with them.

UPDATE: Horshoe Fire in Chiricahua Mountains

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 17:28:00 GMT

The Horseshoe Fire continues to burn in the Chiricahua Mountains near Portal.

The Forest Service has reopened Cave Creek Road (Forest Rd. 42), but the South Fork of Cave Creek and Herb Martyr Campground Road remain closed, and the campgrounds at Herb Martyr, Idlewilde, John Hand Stewart, South Fork, and Sunny Flat are also closed.

Updates on this fire are available at the Coronado National Forest Fire feed on Twitter and at the Horseshoe Fire page at InciWeb.

Business member update

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 19 May 2010 01:46:13 GMT

Welcome to SABO's new Business Patron Droll Yankees Inc., whose famous bird feeders are a familiar sight at feeding stations around southeastern Arizona.

We would also like to thank renewing business member ACLSRecertificationOnline.com for its continuing support of SABO's efforts on behalf of the birds of southeastern Arizona and the landscapes we share with them.

Business member update

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:32:34 GMT

Sincere thanks to renewing business member Yard Envy, online retailer of fine patio & garden décor, for its continuing support of SABO's efforts on behalf of the birds of southeastern Arizona and the landscapes we share with them.

"I Like Shrikes" button new in SABO's Zazzle gallery

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 17:10:35 GMT

In this election year, show your support for birds and their habitats with this nonpartisan "I Like Shrikes" button. 20% of your purchase benefits SABO's programs on behalf of birds and the people who love them.

I Like Shrikes Button by the
Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory

20% of your purchase benefits SABO's programs on behalf of birds and the people who love them.

First Rufous Hummingbird of the season in Bisbee

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:47:09 GMT

An adult male Rufous Hummingbird was seen in Bisbee this morning, probably on his way north from Mexico. Broad-tailed Hummingbirds are another early migrant and are expected any day. Arizona residents and visitors are asked to keep their eyes and ears open for early northbound migrant hummingbirds and report them to the Arizona Hummingbird Survey.

Donations in memory of Macre Inabinet to benefit SABO

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 04:57:13 GMT

We were honored and humbled to learn that Macre Inabinet's family has designated the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory as a beneficiary of donations in her memory.

Our sincere thanks to those who have already made memorial contributions. Macre's caring, giving spirit lives on in the generosity of those whose lives she touched.

SABO opens new online birding shop

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 05:01:04 GMT

The Trogon's Nest, SABO's new online birding shop, opened today with a selection of field guides, other books, binoculars, hummingbird feeders, DVDs, magazines, and more. The shop is a service of Amazon.com, the most trusted name in online shopping. A portion of all purchases made through the shop will benefit SABO's research and outreach programs.

Welcome returning business member Alta Vista Bed and Breakfast Inn!

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:48:32 GMT

We're delighted to welcome back Basic Business member Alta Vista Bed and Breakfast Inn, birder-friendly lodging in Tucson owned and managed by Peter & Gaila Smith. The Smiths have lots of birds on their property and enjoy hosting birders. For early birding, ask about their brown-bag breakfast!

In Memoriam: Macre Inabinet

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:45:50 GMT

SABO's staff and volunteers are mourning the loss of longtime volunteer Macre Inabinet, who passed away this week after a short battle with cancer. Macre and her husband Cary have been members of the Upper San Pedro River banding team for several years, and her passing will be deeply felt by all of us.

We send our heartfelt condolences to Cary and all of Macre's family and friends join them in fond remembrance of her life and accomplishments.

Banning Creek Field Station is closed

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 03:49:55 GMT

Banning Creek Field Station is now officially closed. The old miner's cabin that we initially hoped would function as an office and headquarters proved inadequate for those uses, but we stayed on in order to maintain a feeding station and have a venue for occasional activities such as owl prowls and workshops. Downsizing of the staff in 2008 made it increasingly difficult even to maintain the feeding station, so when the property owner decided to use the cabin for storage we realized it was time to move on and look for a new home for SABO.

We appreciate everyone who has visited the station and supported our programs there over the last seven years. If and when we find a new location that meets our research and outreach needs and are again able to extend hospitality to the birding community, we'll announce it here.

Amazon.com gift cards can benefit SABO!

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:55:13 GMT

Need a last-minute gift for a special someone? How about a gift card from Amazon.com? Your gift card purchase can benefit SABO with a referral fee of up to 6% if you use this link:

Purchase a gift card from Amazon.com

Happy holidays!

Rescuing hummingbirds trapped in garages

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:02:55 GMT

Fall migration brings an increase in incidents of hummingbirds getting trapped in garages. The birds are attracted to the bright red emergency release handles on garage door openers and often get confused and frightened once inside the garage. Many exhaust themselves and die before finding an escape route.

To prevent this from happening, wrap the handle in tape of a less hummingbird-attractive bright color such as fluorescent blue, green, or yellow (not orange or hot pink).

To rescue a trapped hummingbird:

1. Open the garage doors as wide as possible and keep people and pets out of the space and away from the exit. Any windows should be darkened by closing the blinds or curtains or covering them with a blanket or other light-blocking material. Turn off artificial lighting.

2. Fill a hummingbird feeder with a solution of 4 parts water to one part white sugar and place it near the spot the bird is spending the most time in its attempts to escape. If you don't own a feeder, one can be purchased for less than $10 from many discount, hardware, grocery, and drug stores. Feeders with large areas of red are best for this task.

3. Watch from a discrete distance until the bird notices the feeder and takes at least a couple of drinks (this will help replenish its energy and buy you time to accomplish the rescue).

4. Slowly and quietly reenter the space and move the feeder a few feet toward an exit, waiting until the bird uses the feeder again to be sure it's following. Repeat this until the feeder is within 3 to 4 feet of the exit.

5. If the bird doesn't notice the exit and escape during one of the steps above, hang the feeder in the doorway or just outside, visible from the bird's preferred perch. Once the bird comes down to drink again, it should continue outside to safety.

Welcome new business member Lazy Dog Ranch!

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 00:43:22 GMT

A warm SABO welcome to new Basic Business member Lazy Dog Ranch, a birder-friendly bed & breakfast on the San Pedro River owned and managed by Michael and Catherine McCormack with assistance from their canine companions Mack, Zorra, and Thor.
.

Hummingbird banded on the San Pedro River recaptured in Montana

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:50:59 GMT

A male Black-chinned Hummingbird banded as a juvenile ("hatch-year") on the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area on September 9, 2000 was recaptured and released in the Bitterroot Valley of southwestern Montana on July 26, 2009. Hummingbird banders Ned and Gigi Batchelder report that the bird appeared to be in excellent health and drank heartily when offered sugar water before release.

This encounter represents the longest distance between encounters (approximately 1035 miles) for any hummingbird in SABO's 14 seasons of banding and confirms that Black-chinned Hummingbirds on the San Pedro River include migrants from distant populations as well as members of the local breeding population. The bird is also the second oldest individual in this study and possibly the oldest male Black-chinned Hummingbird documented so far.

Fish & Wildlife Service report analyses birders' contributions to U.S. economy

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:33:05 GMT

From the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service:

Birdwatchers No Featherweights in Contributions to Economy

A new report released today by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shows one of every five Americans watches birds, and in doing so, birdwatchers contributed $36 billion to the U.S. economy in 2006, the most recent year for which economic data are available. The report – Birding in the United States: A Demographic and Economic Analysis – shows that total participation in birdwatching is strong at 48 million, and remaining at a steady 20 percent of the U.S. population since 1996.

Participation rates vary, but are generally greater in the northern half of the country. The five top states with the greatest birding participation rates include Montana (40 percent), Maine (39 percent), Vermont (38 percent), Minnesota (33 percent) and Iowa (33 percent).

The report identifies who birders are, where they live, how avid they are, and what kinds of birds they watch. In addition to demographic information, this report also provides an estimate of how much birders spend on their hobby and the economic impact of these expenditures.

The report is an addendum to the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation. The 2006 survey is the eleventh in a series of surveys conducted about every 5 years that began in 1955. The survey, conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in partnership with state wildlife agencies and national conservation organizations, has become the reference for participation and expenditure information on fish and wildlife recreation in the United States. The survey helps quantify how enjoyment of the outdoors and wildlife contributes to society and promotes a healthy economy – and further strengthens the Service’s commitment to conserve the nation’s wildlife for the enjoyment and benefit of the American people.

A copy of the Birding in the United States: A Demographic and Economic Analysis can be downloaded here:
http://library.fws.gov/Pubs/birding_natsurvey06.pdf

In conjunction with the release of the birding report, the Service also issued another similar addendum to the 2006 Survey entitled, Wildlife Watching Trends: 1991–2006 A Reference Report. This report shows similar trends in wildlife-watching, a broader category that includes large and small-mammal viewing.

An overview of the Survey, and a wealth of other information, can be found online at:
http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/NationalSurvey/National_Survey.htm

Activist Alert: The Migratory Bird Treaty Act Penalty and Enforcement Act of 2009

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:00:25 GMT

A bill has been introduced into the House of Representatives that would amend the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to provide harsher maximum penalties for intentionally taking protected birds and monetary rewards for information that leads to arrest or criminal conviction of violators.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act Penalty and Enforcement Act of 2009 would help to bring the penalties for violation of the Act in line with the increasingly lucrative nature of some wildlife crimes (sale of feathers, for example) and the horrific nature of some offenses. Under the amendment's provisions, intentional and malicious violation of the Act would be become a felony, and violators would be subject to "not more than $50,000 or imprisoned for not more than two years, or both, for each violation." The fines would provide funds with which to reward informants.

The bill, which is currently before the House Natural Resources Committee Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife, was introduced by Rep. Pete DeFazio of Oregon and cosponsored by:

Rep. Howard Berman [CA-28]
Rep. Earl Blumenauer [OR-3]
Rep. Sam Farr [CA-17]
Rep. Raul Grijalva [AZ-7]
Rep. Phil Hare [IL-17]
Rep. Mazie Hirono [HI-2]
Rep. Ron Kind [WI-3]
Rep. Barbara Lee [CA-9]
Rep. Betty McCollum [MN-4]
Rep. Michael Michaud [ME-2]
Rep. George Miller [CA-7]
Rep. Joe Sestak [PA-7]
Rep. Henry Waxman [CA-30]
Rep. Robert Wexler [FL-19]
Rep. David Wu [OR-1].

Hummingbird banding resumes June 26-27

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:03:03 GMT

SABO's hummingbird banding projects on the San Pedro River and in the Huachuca Mountains will resume June 27 and continue through October 3. The schedule has been posted on the calendar of events but may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Alterations to the banding schedule will be posted as soon as possible here on SABO's News page, and members who register to visit the Carr Canyon banding station will be notified by e-mail.

Melendrez Pass Fire causes closure of Box Canyon Road

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:10:54 GMT

For birders headed for Madera Canyon, information from the Coronado National Forest Fire Update, June 1, 2009, 8:00 p.m.:

Melendrez Pass Fire

Started: May 29, 2009, at approximately 1:00 p.m.
Percent Contained: 50%
Location: Nogales Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest, east of Green Valley, AZ in the Santa Rita Mountains
Size: 5,000 acres
Cause: Lightning
Closures: Box Canyon Rd (Forest Rd 62) is closed from Whitehouse Rd to the west to Greaterville Rd to the east.
Structures: No structures lost or threatened.
Fire Behavior: Moderate intensity
Summary: Methods used during burnout operations today were successful at achieving low intensity backing fires from high elevations to low elevations. As a result, a high percentage of survival is expected among the trees in the area. The fire was of an intensity that consumes decadent brush, returning the nutrients to the soil.

You can now get the latest wildfire and prescribed fire information on Twitter at CoronadoNF_Fire.

Business member update

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 31 May 2009 20:50:58 GMT

Thanks to renewing business members Johnnie and Audrey Eskue of Birders Vista Bed and Breakfast in Hereford, Arizona and welcome to new business member ACLS Recertification Online in Phoenix, Arizona. We appreciate their support of SABO's efforts on behalf of the birds of southeastern Arizona and the landscapes we share with them.

Multiple registrations: A step in the right direction

Sheri Williamson — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 17:31:32 GMT

A number of people have expressed frustration at having to go through the event registration process once for each person and activity. The company that provides our event registration capability is working on solutions to this issue, but in the meantime we have added an additional participant option to the registration form.

This approach is less than ideal in that:

the additional space will not be automatically deducted from the number of remaining spaces on the activity, which could lead to overbooking
multiple activities will still require multiple registrations

However, this temporary work-around will cut the number of registrations and PayPal transactions in half for parties of two, four, or six.

SABO's staff appreciates your patience and perseverance as we work to make the registration process more user friendly.

New activities added to schedule May 5 and 7

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:10:05 GMT

Cancellation of the Institute for Field Ornithology Owls, Trogons, & Hummingbirds workshop allowed SABO to offer another week of public activities, including a River Walk on May 5 and a Canyon Walk and Huachuca Mountain Owl Prowl on May 7. Registration is now open for these activities - please visit the Calendar of Events for details and registration.

New activities posted for Fiesta de las Aves

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 16:11:49 GMT

We've just confirmed the last activities on the Fiesta de las Aves schedule, including the new Cienega and Grasslands Tour. Activities will begin Monday, May 11 and continue through Saturday, May 16.

To review the schedule or register, please visit the new Fiesta de las Aves page.

Hummingbird banding schedule revised

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:08:44 GMT

Conflicts with other events and the impending loss of access to our banding site in Carr Canyon have forced revisions to this spring's hummingbird banding schedule. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please check the Calendar of Events for the revised dates.

BIRDER ALERT: Cell phone ban for drivers on Fort Huachuca now includes fine

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:06:10 GMT

Use of cell phones while driving has been prohibited on Fort Huachuca for some time, but violators are now subject to fines.

SABO fundraising challenge on Facebook to benefit the Arizona Hummingbird Survey

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 18:42:26 GMT

SABO now has a profile on Facebook. Though we won't duplicate all the information from www.sabo.org to the profile, we'll be posting selected photos, videos, links, and events to share with our Facebook friends.

We have also posted a fundraising challenge to Facebook Causes: Raise $5000 by May 16, 2009 to fund a half-time coordinator and information manager for the Arizona Hummingbird Survey for six months. We would like to have a coordinator on the job by early June in preparation for fall migration. Facebook members can help by joining this cause, making donations, and spreading the word to their network of friends.

Science News: Plants take a hike as temperatures rise

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 23:54:38 GMT

This article from Science News reports on research at the University of Arizona on how climate change is affecting the distribution and flowering seasons of native plants of the Sonoran Desert region.

Blue Mockingbird on SABO's YouTube channel

Sheri Williamson — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 23:49:34 GMT

A Blue Mockingbird at the Slaughter Ranch historic site east of Douglas has been the most exciting bird of the winter. SABO directors Tom Wood, Sheri Williamson, and Mark Newstrom visited the site and were able to get a short high-definition video of this avian celebrity.

Welcome back Copper City Inn!

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:33:33 GMT

Our thanks to renewing business member Fred Miller of Copper City Inn, located here in SABO's home town of Bisbee. If you're planning a visit to southeastern Arizona, please stop by the Business Member Directory for birder-friendly lodging, dining, and other opportunities.

Welcome new business members!

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:17:02 GMT

SABO welcomes the two newest members of our conservation team: Tubac Country Inn in Tubac, Arizona and Casa Adobe B&B/Guesthouse in Rodeo, New Mexico. You'll find contact information and links to their Web sites in the Business Member Directory.

2009 Sandhill Crane census results

Sheri Williamson — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:28:11 GMT

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has reported the results of its annual census of wintering Sandhill Cranes in the Sulphur Springs Valley. This year's tally was 28,814, down significantly from last year's record of 36,708. The largest flocks were approximately 10,000 at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area between Bisbee and Elfrida, 8,000 at Crane Lake in the Willcox Playa Wildlife Area, and 5,000 at the Apache Generating Station viewing area on Highway 191.

SABO will offer family-friendly Crane Watch activities at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area through the last week of February. Check the Calendar of Events for dates and details.

SABO on YouTube

Sheri Williamson — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 09:56:14 GMT

The favorites section of SABO's channel on YouTube now features several videos that we think will interest fans of Arizona's bird life. Among our favorites are:

two episodes of Arizona Wildlife Views, a television program produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, that include segments about SABO's hummingbird banding programs at Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area and the San Pedro River
two additional videos from hummingbird banding sessions at the San Pedro House
a segment from Arizona Wildlife Views about the risk to raptors from utility poles, showing volunteers from Liberty Wildlife assisting a utility company in the relocation of an at-risk Red-tailed Hawk nest with tiny chicks
news from the American Bird Conservancy about recent progress in protecting habitat for Thick-billed Parrots near Madera, Chihuahua
amateur video of the male Elegant Trogon that spent multiple winters at Patagonia Lake State Park

We have lots of raw video from various field trips over the last year and hope to have more finished videos posted to the channel within the next few weeks.

New SABO gallery at Zazzle.com

Sheri Williamson — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:44:49 GMT

If you're looking for beautiful and practical gifts for the bird lovers on your list, have we got mugs (and more) for you! SABO has just opened a gallery at Zazzle, a company that prints custom graphics on quality products such as mugs, mousepads, magnets, and much, much more. Every purchase benefits SABO's conservation and education programs.

We've added some of our favorite images, including photos taken on SABO's field trips, workshops, and tours, to items you can use every day and be proud to give. To shop SABO's Zazzle gallery, visit:

zazzle.com/sabobird*

If you have high-resolution bird photos you'd be willing to lend us for new designs, please let us know (but please ask for instructions before sending attachments!).

Good news about Thick-billed Parrots

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:24:17 GMT

This video from the American Bird Conservancy celebrates recent progress in conservation efforts for the Thick-billed Parrot. The area in which ABC and Mexican partner organization Pronature Noreste have protected habitat and placed nest boxes is the same area we visit on SABO's Parrots & Quetzals tours, so if you've joined us for one of these, the landscape should look familiar.

Bird News Network: Successes in Conserving the Thick-billed Parrot

Thanksgiving weekend activities kick off winter birding season

Sheri Williamson — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:18:00 GMT

Thanksgiving weekend is the traditional start of SABO's winter birding season, and we have a full slate of activities planned:

Thanksgiving Day: half-day bus tour to the Sulphur Springs Valley starting from Casa de San Pedro Bed & Breakfast
Friday, November 28: half-day bus tour of the Sulphur Springs Valley starting from Old Bisbee
Saturday, November 29: All-day Hawk Stalk in the Sulphur Springs Valley, starting from Bisbee
Sunday, November 30: half-day bus tour of the Sulphur Springs Valley starting from Old Bisbee.

Space is limited, and some of these tours are already filling up! For reservations or more information, please visit the Calendar of Events and click the appropriate link.

Banning Creek Field Station is safe for now

Sheri Williamson — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:01:48 GMT

Banning Creek Field Station, a rustic cabin north of Bisbee that SABO has rented for its headquarters since September 2002, will remain open thanks to the donation of its use by the landlord. This generous contribution saves SABO $200 per month and allows us to maintain public birding opportunities near Bisbee and a venue for workshops, owl prowls, and other activities.

We will be recruiting volunteers to help with feeder maintenance and keeping the cabin open to visitors a few days a week. We are also gratefully accepting donations to offset the other costs of keeping the field station open to the public and using it as an office, including bird food, utilities, high-speed Internet access, and repairs and renovations. If you would like to contribute, please click the "More Ways To Help" button at left to make a donation or the "Membership" button to renew and/or upgrade your membership.