Q: Where are you located?

A: 5255 E. Spring Rd., Hereford, AZ 85615, in the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains south of Sierra Vista. From Highway 92, turn west on Turkey Track Rd., left at a yellow and black warning marker in front of an oak tree, right on Spring Rd., and follow it until you come to an area marked with signs for “Birder Parking” (0.5 mi. from the highway). Please observe 15 MPH speed limit to reduce dust and prevent accidents. 

Q: What are your hours?

A: Except for special events or emergency situations, the sanctuary is open from dawn to dusk Friday through Wednesday, noon to dusk Thursday (CLOSED Thursday mornings for gardening and maintenance).

Q: Do I need a reservation to visit?

A: We don’t currently accept reservations as the sanctuary normally has adequate parking except during peak visitor times (April-May, early to mid-August, spring-summer holiday weekends).

Q: What should I do if the visitor parking is full when I arrive?

A: You will need to leave and try again later. There is no legal parking or public access along Spring Road or Turkey Track Road, and blocking the road or trespassing on neighboring private property could affect future access to the sanctuary. Beatty’s Guest Ranch in Miller Canyon (7.7 miles, ~22 minutes), Ramsey Canyon Preserve (11.8 miles, ~23 minutes; open 8 AM – 5 PM Thursday-Monday), and the San Pedro House (20.1 miles, ~29 minutes) are nearby sites with bird feeders.

Q: Is picnicking allowed?

A: We don’t currently have picnic facilities at the sanctuary, but visitors are welcome to bring in snacks and drinks. There are picnic facilities at the Carr Canyon Picnic Area (9.0 miles, ~17 minutes) and the San Pedro House (20.1 miles, ~29 minutes).

Q: Do you have any restrictions on photography?

A: Not really, though we ask that all visitors stay on designated public paths, avoid blocking paths with tripods or chairs, and be considerate of both other visitors and our wildlife. For visitors who would like to do extensive flash photography, we recommend renting our private photo blind.

Q: Do you still have a photo blind for rent?

A: Yes! An upgraded photo blind donated by neighbor and supporter Tony Battiste is available for rent during peak times for bird activity. Please visit this page for additional information and online reservations. 

Q: Can I bring my pet when I visit the sanctuary?

A: For their health and safety as well as that of our wildlife and visitors, pets are not permitted on the sanctuary. 

Q: I found a baby/sick/injured bird. Can I bring it to the sanctuary?

A: No. We refer all wild bird emergencies to the Tucson Wildlife Center.

Q: Do you still rent Mary Jo’s casita for overnight stays?

A: No. The casita now serves as an office, volunteer headquarters, and food storage and feeder maintenance area, and also provides a restroom for visitors. Lodging is available nearby at Battiste’s Bed, Breakfast and Birds (5.7 miles, ~12 minutes), Beatty’s Guest Ranch (7.7 miles, ~22 minutes), and Casa de San Pedro B&B (10.5 miles, ~15 minutes).