DEC 14 Update and sighting advice from banding team

[Rosyfinch]

Latest advice from the Sandia Rosy-Finch Project Facebook Page, posted December 13


A quick update!

The feeders at the crest are up, but the birds have still not found the feeders. Rosy-finches are being seen in small numbers.

The best place to see them right now is to look down at the Crest House deck from the outlook area that is immediately above and to the west of the upper parking area. The deck is located on the west side of the building (south of the overlook area).

People have been seeing Pine Grosbeaks and the Three-toed Woodpecker regularly on the the crest trail!

We will not be banding for the rest of the year. We plan on being back at the crest for banding sometime in mid January. Check the schedule for an update soon detailing the exact date that banding will resume.

[James]

Hi,

I have been really loving all of the feedback and updates being given on this site - it is making planning my trip out to the area more realistic and easier to plan, as I am doing everything I can to ensure myself the best chance to see the rosy finches. Thank you!

I did have a question, though, that I was hoping someone could help me with. The ABA Birding Rally in February sounds like the best route to go, in terms of seeing the finches and other great birds at the Sandia Crest. I would love to spend a day with the groups birding at the crest, but I will only have that day to bird. I see that to join the rally there is a $675 fee for the five days, but I only have time to participate in the field trip at Sandia Crest. Does anyone know if I can just sign up for one day and pay just that one fee for that day? I will am still waiting on a reply from the email I sent to the ABA regarding this question. Any feedback would be appreciated, and thank you!

[Rosyfinch]

James, I believe that the ABA is the party that must answer this question. Perhaps you will hear from them after the weekend.

If anyone on this FORUM has pertinent information, please let us all know.

Thanks!

Ken

[James]

I thought as much, regarding the ABA having to be the ones to answer my question, and I just received their reply email about 30 minutes ago. One must sign up for the entire rally to participate, is the reply I did receive, so no worries there.

I still plan to come out in - probably early- to mid-January in an attempt to see the birds, so let's hope that the birds have found the feeders and the road to the top of the crest is drivable for all kinds of vehicles. Keep up the great feedback and updates!