Arizona is home to over a dozen species of hummingbirds that either reside in the state year-round or pass through during migration. This colorful variety of hummingbirds can be found across the diverse habitats of Arizona – from the high mountain ranges to the lush riparian areas and everywhere in between. With a pair of binoculars and some patience, birdwatchers can easily spot these tiny feathered creatures visiting flowering plants and feeders in backyards and nature preserves throughout the state.
What are the most common hummingbird species found in Arizona?
Some of the most widespread and easily spotted hummingbird species in Arizona include:
- Anna’s Hummingbird – A year-round resident known for its iridescent rose-pink gorget and bold territorial displays.
- Black-chinned Hummingbird – A summer resident identifiable by its purple throat band and whistling song.
- Broad-billed Hummingbird – A summer visitor to southeastern Arizona that has a distinctive wide, straight bill.
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird – A breeding species commonly seen in mountain canyons and meadows.
- Rufous Hummingbird – A migratory species that passes through Arizona in spring and fall with its bright orange-red plumage.
- Costa’s Hummingbird – A desert specialist found along the Colorado River and in the Sonoran Desert.
Other less common species like Calliope Hummingbird, Lucifer Hummingbird, Berylline Hummingbird and Violet-crowned Hummingbird can also occasionally be spotted by birders in suitable habitat.
When is the best time to see hummingbirds in Arizona?
The diversity and abundance of hummingbirds changes throughout the year in Arizona. Here are the general guidelines for the best viewing seasons:
- Spring (March to May) – Many migratory hummingbird species like Rufous and Black-chinned arrive to breed in Arizona’s mountain meadows and canyons.
- Summer (June to August) – Anna’s, Black-chinned, Broad-tailed and other species nest and raise their young.
- Fall (September to November) – Rufous and Calliope hummingbirds pass through Arizona during fall migration.
- Winter (December to February) – Anna’s and Costa’s hummingbirds are present year-round, along with some Black-chinned and other species.
Late spring and early summer tend to be the peak times to find the most diversity of hummingbird species. However, you can spot hummingbirds on warm days nearly any time of year in Arizona if you know where to look!
Where are the best places to see hummingbirds in Arizona?
Some top spots across Arizona to observe hummingbirds include:
Southeastern Arizona
- Ramsey Canyon Preserve – Draws up to 14 species like Berylline and Violet-crowned.
- Madera Canyon – A mountain oasis hosting Magnificent and nesting Black-chinned Hummingbirds.
- Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve – Riparian habitat along Sonoita Creek with rare species.
- San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area – Migratory hot spot along the San Pedro River.
- Sabino Canyon – A lush desert canyon near Tucson.
Central Arizona
- Boyce Thompson Arboretum – Extensive gardens and natural areas north of Tucson.
- Catalina State Park – Bird habitat with hiking trails at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
- Picacho Peak State Park – Stopover for migrating hummingbirds around this distinctive desert peak.
- Lost Dutchman State Park – Near Apache Junction, draws Anna’s Hummingbirds.
Northern Arizona
- West Clear Creek Canyon – Rugged canyon cliffs filled with blooming flowers in spring.
- Oak Creek Canyon – Lush riparian area along scenic Oak Creek near Sedona.
- Walnut Canyon National Monument – Sinuous canyon with cliff dwelling ruins.
- West Fork Trail – Stunning creekside trail in Oak Creek Canyon.
- Slide Rock State Park – Historic swimming hole along Oak Creek.
Western Arizona
- Yuma East Wetlands – Riparian oasis for southbound migratory hummingbirds.
- Alamo Lake State Park – High desert lake that acts as a migratory stopover.
- Havasu National Wildlife Refuge – Extensive wetlands along the lower Colorado River.
- Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge – Cottonwood forest habitat near Lake Havasu.
- Lake Pleasant Regional Park – Desert lake north of Phoenix.
In addition to these natural hotspots, residential gardens, parks, botanical gardens, and roadside rest areas planted with nectar-rich flowers have the potential to attract hummingbirds throughout their Arizona range.
What is the best way to observe hummingbirds in Arizona?
Here are some tips to improve your chances of observing hummingbirds in Arizona:
- Use binoculars – Scan flowerbeds, feeders, and blossoming trees for fast-moving glimmers of color.
- Get an early start – Hummingbirds are most active at dawn and dusk.
- Sit quietly in one spot – Hummingbirds will buzz by more often if you are still.
- Use a blind – A blind helps conceal your movements.
- Have patience – Hummingbirds move quickly and can be easy to miss.
- Provide nectar feeders – Use a mix of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
- Plant native flowers – Penstemon, fuchsia, salvia, and others will attract hummingbirds.
- Avoid using insect repellent – Strong scents may repel hummingbirds.
- Visit at the right time of year – Migration peaks and breeding seasons are best.
Taking a slow, methodical approach when observing hummingbird activity will increase your chances of spotting these energetic birds as they zoom from flower to flower.
Conclusion
With over a dozen species passing through the state, Arizona provides ample opportunities to observe hummingbirds in their native habitat. From the San Pedro Riparian area to Ramsey Canyon, these tiny birds can be found across diverse environments during spring, summer and fall. By visiting hotspots at peak migration and breeding times, watching patiently from a concealed spot, and tempting them with nectar feeders, birders will be delighted by the array of hummingbirds that call Arizona home.
