southeastern arizona bird observatory

We had the great fortune of experiencing hummingbird banding, conducted by volunteer scientists who are studying migration along the San Pedro River corridor. These professionals were not only amazing to watch as they gently captured, analyzed, banded, and released the birds; they were also fascinating to talk with and fun to be around. We spent two hours watching them and could have stayed longer. What a great learning experience. They have a website that explains the process, locations and timing of the banding activity (April-Sept). This was free for us to observe, although we happily made a contribution to their group. We are grateful that there is such a wonderful organization doing this very important work.

A unique opportunity to participate in capturing, evaluating, and banding hummingbirds (you get to release one from the palm of your hand!). Sheri Williamson is very knowledgeable and educates the participants well. A great late afternoon experience at Casa de San Pedro B&B on many Fridays Spring, Summer and Early Fall - and then again at the San Pedro House on Saturdays. Plan on it!

The first thing you have to understand is that the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory is not really a "place" but a series of bird observation areas near Bisbee. We went in December in search of the sandhill cranes. We found them south of Elfrida, a wide spot on Highway 191 in the Sulphur Springs Valley west of Bisbee. During the day the cranes feed in corn and alfalfa fields. We found hundreds of cranes feeding in fields just south of Elfrida on the North Central Highway (which intersects 191 at Elfrida). During the early morning or late afternoon, the cranes roost in a wildlife habitat area (a shallow lake) just west of the Central Highway on Coffman Road. There are excellent observation points here (and bathroom facilities). We say 2-3 thousand cranes roosting here. Got some great photos.

We did not visit the observatory itself, but we encountered both Tom and Sherry and found them both awesome. Ran into Tom at Huachuca Canyon; he tried and failed to find us a trogon, but he did point out a pair of pygmy owls. The next day I found out who that gentleman was when we did a great bird walk from Casa de San Pedro with Sherry. She was a really great guide -- super-knowledgeable, especially when it came to the behavior of birds and other wildlife. She's also really pleasant, approachable, and fun. Would love to spend more time with and learn more from the people at this organization!

My wife and i participated in a 3 hour walk at Casa San Pedro followed by a tour led by Tom of the the SABO staff. Excellent birding guide who is also a established hummingbird bander. His wife Sherry wrote the book on identifying humming birds published as a Peterson guide. You will enjoy having either of these fine guides assist you in birding the southeastern Arizona San Pedro River, one of America's best bird traps.