Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch. Photo Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

The Rosy-Finch Project

Each winter on the Sandia Crest, a dedicated team of researchers and volunteers gathers to study one of New Mexico’s most remarkable seasonal visitors, the three species of rosy-finches. High above Albuquerque, Black, Gray-crowned, and Brown-capped Rosy-finches flock to the mountains from mid-November through early spring, creating the perfect opportunity for careful, long-running banding work. Using mist nets and gentle handling, the team bands and tracks these alpine specialists to better understand their movements, population trends, and how they’re adapting to a changing climate.

These gorgeous birds breed at very high elevations and descend to lower elevations during winter time. Look for them in alpine snowfields. They will visit feeders in the winter feeding on seeds.

Many banding days are open to the public, giving visitors a rare chance to witness the process up close, learn about the finches’ natural history, and appreciate the importance of ongoing conservation efforts in the Sandias. It is well worth the drive! Bundle up, bring your hot tea and camera!

Here’s a link to the latest banding schedule information for the Sandia Crest Rosy-Finch project:

Bird Alliance of Central New Mexico (BACNM) — “The Rosy-Finch Project”