Full Breakdown
The Journey of Bob: A Costa's Hummingbird's Remarkable Rescue and Release
12/1/2025, 2:16:00 PM
The Unlikely Journey of a Costa's Hummingbird
In a remarkable tale of survival, a juvenile Costa's hummingbird, affectionately named Bob, was rescued from the frigid conditions of Nebraska and successfully relocated to Tucson, Arizona. Bob, weighing only 2½ grams, was discovered in Lincoln, Nebraska, in early October, far beyond his typical range in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. His presence attracted significant attention from local birdwatchers, leading to a flurry of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the rare bird.
Rescue Efforts and Rehabilitation
Jennifer Munson, who initially found Bob, became deeply invested in his well-being, especially as winter approached and temperatures dropped. After a particularly harsh freeze, Munson realized that Bob's survival was at risk due to the lack of food sources. On November 17, she and her friend, retired game warden Dina Barta, contacted Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, leading to Bob's transfer to a licensed rescue organization. Laura Stastny, the executive director of Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, noted that Bob's survival in Nebraska was surprising, given the harsh conditions.
The Long Road to Tucson
On November 21, Stastny embarked on a 3,000-mile journey to Tucson, transporting Bob along with other rescued wildlife. The trip included stops in Fort Worth, Texas, and Phoenix, Arizona, where Bob remained active and responsive during the drive. Upon arriving in Tucson on November 22, Bob was handed over to Julia Lehman of Southern Arizona Hummingbird Rescue, who prepared him for release.
Release and Future Prospects
After two days of acclimatization, Bob was released on November 26 into a warm Tucson morning. Patricia Coghlan, another rehabilitator, confirmed that Bob was healthy and ready for freedom. The release was swift, with Bob zipping out of the aviary within minutes. Although there are no means to track his movements, Coghlan speculated that he might be migrating, as Costa's hummingbirds are common in Tucson but typically reside in more remote areas.
Community Impact and Emotional Closure
The story of Bob resonated deeply with Munson, who found solace in the bird's presence during a difficult year marked by personal loss. The community's response was overwhelmingly positive, with birders expressing their gratitude through gifts and notes. Munson described the release as a touching moment of closure, reflecting on the emotional bond formed during Bob's unexpected journey.
As Bob embarks on his new life, the circumstances surrounding his journey highlight the resilience of wildlife and the impact of community efforts in wildlife rehabilitation.
