The birding festival will include Sheri Williamson, one of the nation’s foremost experts on hummingbirds. Sheri and her crew will lead a capture and bird-banding event that allows participants to observe researchers up close as they handle, measure and band these small, yet remarkable creatures. 

Sheri is the author of the Peterson Field Guide to Hummingbirds of North America. She, together with her husband Tom Wood, founded and operate the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory (SABO), which is a non-profit scientific and educational organization based in Bisbee. SABO’s mission is to promote conservation of birds of southeastern Arizona, their habitats and the diversity of species that share those habitats through research, monitoring and public education.

Presentations during the day will include Hummingbird 101 by Tom Wood; Bird Calls of the White Mountains by Dan Groebner and AZGFD photographer George Andrejko will give instruction on beginning photography for birders. Bring your camera so you can try out some of your new skills. 

Come prepared to spend most of the morning outdoors with the potential of some summer rain. Again, it’s a good idea to bring a camera, as there will be plenty of great photo opportunities, such as taking your picture with a live bird from the AZGFD Wildlife Center “critter photo booth” or learning some new skills at the “How to Photograph Hummingbirds” class. There will be informational booths by the White Mountain Audubon Society, the White Mountain Nature Center, the U.S. Forest Service and an informational booth where you can learn more about gardening for hummingbirds and other wildlife. While at Sipe, people are welcome to explore the visitor center’s interpretive displays on wildlife conservation, habitats and prehistoric culture. This family-friendly event will also include a booth for kids to make hummingbird feeders and bird calls. 

The Round Valley Chamber of Commerce will be providing breakfast items and lunch concessions for purchase.  

The Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area is located southeast of Eagar and Springerville. From Eagar, take Highway 191 toward Alpine for about two miles to the signed turnoff at the top of the first hill. Drive south five miles to the Sipe property on a gravel road suitable for passenger cars. Parking will be extremely limited if the area receives rain. Attendees are encouraged to check the weather forecast for the day of the event. 

Pets must be kept on leash and are not allowed near live wildlife. If you plan on leaving your pet in your vehicle, please note that the parking lot is not shaded.