San Pedro House Nature Store & San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area Visitor Information — Local services in Sierra Vista

This is a great place to come and learn about humming birds. It is fun for kids and adults. First when you come in, you will be given a number, this reserves your place in the line to help release a hummingbird. But first you can watch the hummingbird traps and even transport a humming birth to the banding area in a little net carrying case. There the humming birds are examined and weight by an expert, while a volunteer records what is found. They record the bird's color, breed, if they have injuries or unusual markings, and weight. They note if they have parasites as well. If the bird has a band, this is noted, if it does not have a band one will be put on and the number will be recorded. iFrom there they are offered sugar water, which most of them accept thankfully. Now the fun part comes: the next inline release person is called and handed the hummingbird with instructions to keep your hand flat and be very careful with the little critter. The hummingbird is now free to fly away from your hand. Some stay a while, some take off right away. All in all a fun experience. The docents will answer any questions. Some birds caught are repeat customers. They have bands and vome by for the Food? All in all...

I was just there April 13, 2023. There were several hummers that came through to get a drink that day! It was so FUN to be a part of it & there is no charge. Attendees are given a # when they arrive & if the hummers are busily passing through, that person gets to hold their hand out & the volunteer gently sets the little bird on their hand. Sometimes the little bird will take flight instantly & some hang out for a few seconds! You are allowed to take video too!

To get this started, they were gently caught at a feeder & transported in a little mesh carrier to an open covered area where they were gently checked out. Measured, checked for pollen, food in their craw, bugs (mites) on their feathers, weighed & given a very tiny leg band if they don't already have one. All of this info is documented on a laptop. Then they are taken to a nearby feeder where they get a healthy drink of sugar water, then set on the open hand of the lucky ticket holder to fly on to their next stop!

I highly suggest if you are in the area, stop by check it...

I've always enjoyed hiking and going outdoors. I know it says for the San Pedro House, but I am including the trails and the river itself as part of this review. The trails are great and well maintained. I have always loved the sensation of walking from the San Pedro House into the massive trees which line the San Pedro River. It is a shame that most of the river is nonexistent, but there are parts with water - especially so during specific times of the year. If you want a nice hike that really isn't so much so a "hike" as it is a calming nature walk, this place is for you.

If you do choose this place for your hiking/outdoor needs, please clean up after yourself. Stay courteous and remember that we all share that beautiful part of nature. I'm not implying that it's dirty or riddled with filth and garbage, I'm just saying that for those who should think twice before littering.

I hope you all enjoy the sights and sounds and have a great time. Stay safe out there, guys, and...