Specialty Banding of Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Wisconsin and Central America with Mickey O'Connor

This presentation will be about bird banding and why hummingbirds are a specialty. Learn about the natural history of the ruby-throated hummingbird, how and why we band, as well as how to attract these birds to your yard. Find important details that is gleaned from the data of banding these tiny birds. Hummingbird species we can see in WI, particularly our "winter" hummingbirds like the Rufous-sided and Anna's.
Mickey O’Conner, former Milwaukee County Zoo, Aviary Zookeeper and bird bander that specializes in hummingbirds.
Mickey was introduced to bird banding 30 years ago while birding at Riveredge Nature Center, where Andy Larson and Mary Holleback opened a new world for her. Through banding, she has met many inspiring people, including Al and Deb Sherkow and Noel Cutright. Andy also supported the MAPS project, which still operates today, along with migration banding. Mickey received the WSO Noel J. Cutright Special Recognition Award in 2025. An exceptional avian zookeeper, she welcomed many Milwaukee County Zoo volunteers and helped make the Aviary a special place to visit. She has traveled to Central America, the Galápagos Islands, and Madagascar to introduce others to international bird travel.