Non-Research Visitors
Megascops trichopsis - Whiskered Screech-OwlCourtesy of Laura Paulson
The Chiricahua Mountains of southeast Arizona offer some of the best birding in the US!
The Southwestern Research Station is located in the heart of the beautiful Chiricahua Mountains and is famous for its close proximity to nesting Elegant Trogons, a large diversity of hummingbirds, and other spectacular bird migrants from Central and South America.
We are happy to provide accommodations to non-researchers and also offers opportunities to outside tour groups, birding tours, and space for meetings and events. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, cafeteria dining, our hummingbird area and nature shop, and a multitude of hiking trails within walking distance or a short drive.
Birding Tours
Birding Tours FAQ
What People Say
"Absolutely fantastic, life changing experience...P.D. possesses a rare combination of being an expert in the field.. while also being incredibly personable, professional..."
"The knowledge P.D. has about plants and animals was very nice. Banding hummingbirds was a chance of a lifetime and wonderful. Words cannot describe the food. Staff was very helpful."
Outside Tour Groups
Outside tour groups are welcome to stay at the Southwestern Research Station. Space is usually available only during the spring and fall, though the Station does accept reservations up to a week in advance from June 15 through September 1.
Tour groups that will be using National Forest areas (e.g., South Fork, Rustler Park) for activities are advised that they may be required by law to obtain an Outfitter/Guide Permit. Please write to Recreation and Lands Staff, Douglas Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, 1192 West Saddleview Rd., Douglas AZ 85607, or call 520-364-3468. South Fork and other areas have a USFS parking fee.
If you are a tour leader and would like to bring a group to the Station, please call 520-558-2396 or email [email protected] with your questions.
Hummingbird Monitoring Network (HMN)
From mid-April to mid-September, the SWRS partners with the HMN and bands hummingbirds every two weeks. If you are interested in participating or just observing, call 520-558-2396 for the days we will be banding this year.
Meetings and Events
Conservation conferences, university seminars, writing and painting workshops, and martial arts training groups are just a few of the organizations that have enjoyed our hospitality. Our remote location makes for few distractions, except of course our spectacular scenery and abundance of wildlife. Most visitors come in the spring and fall, when the facility is not fully staffed by researchers.
