*HWI will not operate the Sandia Mountain Raptor Migration Site in New Mexico in Spring 2010.

HWI and the Cibola National Forest are working to learn more about raptors and their migration through New Mexico. HWI began standardized, annual migration counts in the Sandia Mountains in 1985, followed by a banding project in 1990. Annual spring counts typically range between 3,200-6,500 migrants of up to 18 species. The project runs from 24 February through 5 May each year.

The Sandia count monitors long-term trends in populations of raptors using the southern Rocky Mountain Flyway. In 2009, HWI conducted or co-sponsored 10 long-term standardized migration counts in 7 states and Veracruz, Mexico. The information gathered in these studies enables us to better understand the life histories, ecology, status, and conservation needs of raptor populations in North America. Because raptors are top-level predators, occupy large home ranges, inhabit most ecosystems, and are sensitive to environmental contamination and other human disturbances, they serve as important biological indicators of ecosystem health. Moreover, due to the remoteness and widespread distribution of most raptor populations, migration counts likely represent the most cost-effective and efficient method for monitoring the regional status and trends of multiple raptor species.

HWI's banding operations provide additional valuable information about migratory routes, breeding and wintering distribution, and the variations and health of individual raptors. HWI has banded more than 20,000 raptors in the Sandias and the nearby fall site in the Manzano Mountains since 1990. In 1999, HWI also began tracking raptors banded in the Sandia and Manzano Mountains using satellite telemetry to learn even more about the breeding and wintering distributions and migratory habits of selected species.

In addition to gathering important scientific data, the Sandia project provides opportunities for the public to learn about the ecology and conservation needs of raptors through on-site environmental education and interpretation conducted by full-time volunteer educators. Visitors are always welcome at the site. This educational effort is the key to long-term success in securing public understanding and action on behalf of raptors and the ecosystems upon which we all rely.

Financial support for this project in 2009 was provided by the USDA Forest Service, Cibola National Forest and Region 3; New Mexico Game and Fish - Share with Wildlife Program; Arthur and Elaine Johnson Foundation; McCune Foundation; and HWI private donors and members.