Hummingbird Banding

05-26-12
The San Pedro House does hummingbird banding to monitor all the hummingbirds that are in this area. Sierra Vista is the Hummingbird Capital of the USA! There are 17 documented species in this area alone! They catch them using a neat remote net system so the bird doesn't get hurt during the trapping.

Mesh laundry bag used to carry the hummingbird from the trap to the table

 Then they measure the beak & body, lightly blow on it in various places with a straw object to check for molting, coloration, & sex. They record all the info to keep track of the bird. A small band goes around its leg with a tracking number. This way they will know the bird if they ever catch it again. They also weigh the bird.

 This event goes on throughout the year. Just need to call or check the website for info :) They also do it on post every once in a while by the PAO office on old post. This event is FREE! They do take donations if you would like to help that way. I believe you can volunteer your time as well.
You can even adopt a hummingbird for $25!

http://www.sanpedroriver.org/fsprhome.shtml

Office (520) 459-2555
SPH (520) 508-4445




This particular bird weighs a bit more than the average hummingbird due to the fact that it is pregnant & will most likely lay her egg within the next 12 hours! Her belly was nice & fat!

When the whole scientific part of the process is over, they give the bird a drink of nectar.

Then if you are lucky enough,  its possible to be able to release it back to the wild!

Where else can you hold a hummingbird in your hand for FREE?! It really is an amazing feeling!

P.S. sometimes the bird tends to pee on you, this is considered lucky! :) It has happened to Alainna twice now!

Directions to the San Pedro House from the Main Gate:

Go straight down Fry Blvd. You will leave Sierra Vista heading towards Bisbee. The San Pedro House is on the right side of the road right before the river. You will know you are near the river by the line of green trees that are nowhere else around :)