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Sky Island teams to visit birding hotspots of southern Arizona

Sky Island teams to visit birding hotspots of southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is home to a variety of birds, including more than 12 different species of hummingbirds.

It’s no wonder our beautiful state draws bird-watchers from around the world. Tucson will host another major summer event for birders.

The Inaugural Tucson Bird & Wildlife Festival, which runs through Sunday, will kick-off on Wednesday, August 17.

Drought and fire bring out Arizona's bears

Drought and fire bring out Arizona's bears

Officials from the Coronado National Forest are warning campers, hikers and other nature enthusiasts to be vigilant about their safety with a campaign called "Bear Aware."

Not only will "Bear Aware" keep everyone safe, it will also help the bears too, officials said in a release.

Here are some tips from the experts about how to avoid attracting bears in the first place:

Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival begins in wake of Monument Fire

Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival begins in wake of Monument Fire

SIERRA VISTA, AZ (KOLD) –  Hummingbirds that make Ramsey Canyon a popular destination are stressed to find areas not burned by the Monument Fire.  And the fire has strained people who depend on tourism.  Residents are now encouraged to help the hummingbirds.

The height of hummingbird season normally books solid the Ramsey Canyon Inn Bed and Breakfast.

"It's very sporadic,” said owner Shirlene Milligan.

Southwest Wingfest draws in bird watchers from all over

Southwest Wingfest draws in bird watchers from all over

It's a good day to be a bird watcher!

Over 140 bird species will be celebrated today at the Southwest Wingfest in Sierra Vista.

When: Wednesday, August 3 thru Saturday, August 6

Bird watchers to attend annual festival

Bird watchers to attend annual festival

Sierra Vista is renowned as one of the top bird watching destinations in the nation, and also so acknowledged around the world. 

Therefore, it’s only natural that the Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival has been proclaimed as one of the premier events of its kind. This year, the 20th annual Festival, will be held August 3 -6.

Fort canyons now open

The following is a news release from Fort Huachuca:

The Fort Huachuca canyons are now open to the public from dawn to dusk.

Visitors to the installation must present a driver's license, vehicle registration or rental agreement, and proof of insurance. All vehicle occupants over the age of 13 must present government issued identification.

Fire restrictions lifted, areas burned by wildfires still closed

The following is a news release from the Coronado National Forest:

Due to precipitation received across the Coronado National Forest, fire restrictions have been lifted  on all ranger districts on the Forest.  Rainfall has been sporadic, leaving portions of the forest dry.  Visitors are advised to use caution with fire and never leave a fire unattended. 

Fires should be cold to the touch before departure.