Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds in the world. Known for their incredibly fast flapping wings that allow them to hover in place, hummingbirds have captured the imagination of people globally. But where are the best places to observe these energetic little birds?
Top Spots for Hummingbird Watching
Here are some of the top destinations across the globe for seeing hummingbirds in their natural habitats:
Ecuador
Ecuador is a hummingbird lover’s paradise. This South American country is home to over 130 different species of hummingbirds, the most hummingbird species of any country. Some top spots to see hummingbirds in Ecuador include:
- Mindo Cloudforest – Over 160 species of hummingbirds have been recorded here.
- San Isidro Reserve – A biodiverse cloud forest with many hummingbird species.
- Wildsumaco Wildlife Sanctuary – Known for its spectacular displays of mating hummingbirds.
- Guango Lodge – A lodge surrounded by forests filled with many hummingbird species.
Peru
Peru is another South American country that is a prime destination for hummingbird enthusiasts. Some notable places to observe hummingbirds in Peru include:
- Machu Picchu – The famous Incan citadel has several species of hummingbirds.
- Manu National Park – Over 100 hummingbird species inhabit this biodiverse park.
- Abra Malaga Pass – Situated high in the Andes Mountains, many hummingbird species can be seen here.
- Marvellous Spatuletail Reserve – Established to protect the rare Marvellous Spatuletail hummingbird.
Mexico
With over 56 species, Mexico is a hummingbird watcher’s paradise. Some prime spots include:
- El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve – Home to Bumblebee and Long-billed Starthroat hummingbirds.
- La Manzanilla – A small coastal town with many hummingbird species including Violet-crowned Woodnymph.
- Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve – Lush coastal habitat with 30+ hummingbird species.
- El Cielo Biosphere Reserve – Over 140 species of birds including Stripe-tailed and Garnet-throated hummingbirds.
Costa Rica
This Central American country has over 50 types of hummingbirds throughout its varied terrain. Top viewing spots are:
- Monteverde Cloud Forest – A humid cloud forest teeming with hummingbirds.
- La Selva Biological Station – Lowland rainforest with 20+ hummingbird species.
- Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge – Wetlands habitat home to species like Green-breasted Mango.
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens – Lush gardens with feeders that attract hummingbirds.
United States
While not as diverse as tropical locales, the U.S. and Canada still have some excellent places to observe hummingbirds. Notable destinations include:
- Southeastern Arizona – From canyons to sky islands, over a dozen species found here.
- Southwestern New Mexico – Broad-billed and Berylline hummingbird species.
- Florida Everglades – Mangrove forests hosting Ruby-throated and others.
- Texas Hill Country – Diverse habitat home to Black-chinned and Buff-bellied.
- California Coast – Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds common along the coast.
When to See Hummingbirds
The best time to observe hummingbirds depends on the specific location. Here are some general guidelines:
- In the tropics, hummingbirds can be seen year-round.
- In North America, spring and summer are the peak viewing times when hummingbirds return from southern wintering grounds to breed.
- Plant native flowers and keep feeders stocked during migratory and breeding times to spot them.
- Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most active hummingbird viewing times.
Top Hummingbird Species to Spot
While any glimpse of a hummingbird is special, some species are particularly impressive or rare finds for birders. Here are some top species to look out for by region:
Region | Notable Hummingbird Species |
---|---|
South America | Marvellous Spatuletail, Giant Hummingbird, Violet-tailed Sylph, Sword-billed Hummingbird |
Central America | Resplendent Quetzal, Fiery-throated Hummingbird, Snowcap, Violet Sabrewing |
North America | Anna’s Hummingbird, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Calliope Hummingbird |
Tips for Spotting Hummingbirds
Here are some tips to increase your chances of observing hummingbirds in the wild:
- Look for hummingbird feeders at parks, gardens, zoos and backyard birding areas.
- Bring a pair of binoculars for detailed viewing.
- Wear neutral colors and avoid perfumed products that may distract the birds.
- Make sure to watch patiently and quietly once a bird is spotted.
- Listen for high-pitched buzzing or chirping sounds that may indicate hummingbird presence.
- Aim for early mornings and late afternoons when the birds are most active.
- Research the time of year when various species migrate or breed at your destination.
- Consider hiring a local birding guide who knows the best regional spots and timing.
Why Hummingbirds are so Fascinating
So what makes hummingbirds so incredibly captivating? Here are some of their most amazing traits:
- Fast flight – Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backwards. Their wings beat up to 80 times per second.
- Hovering ability – They can precisely hover in place by rapidly flapping their wings in a figure-8 movement.
- Nectar feeding – Long beaks and tongues allow them to drink nectar from flowers.
- Swift metabolism – Their super-fast metabolism requires they eat often from hundreds of flowers daily.
- Miniscule size – Some species are just 2 inches long and weigh less than a penny!
- Bright colors – Dazzling irridescent feathers in vibrant metallic hues.
- Agile maneuvers – Quick dives, loops, and mid-air reversals while feeding.
- Courtship displays – Colorful mating dances and dive displays.
- Year-round presence – Some species don’t migrate so can be observed in all seasons.
Conclusion
For birdwatchers, few sights compare with observing energetic, jewel-toned hummingbirds buzzing from flower to flower. The diversity and abundance found in tropical locales like Ecuador and Peru make them top destinations worldwide. But even flourishing backyard feeders in North America offer the chance to see these tiny dynamos up close. With some preparation on the best spots and times, an encounter with a flashing hummingbird can brighten any day.