Hobbies And Interests
Spring Migration
A few species of hummingbirds live in the warmer parts of Arizona year round. However, most begin their journey northward in the early spring, and arrive beginning in April and May. Therefore, late spring and summertime offer the best opportunities to see the greatest number of species.
Autumn Migration
Hummingbirds begin their migration southward from Arizona late in the summer, so their movements are observable from August through September.
Which Species to Observe in Arizona
The following species are rare visitors to Arizona, but may be spotted in the summer: White-Eared, Cinnamon, Berylline, Violet-Crowned, Plain-Capped Starthroat, Lucifer, Bumblebee and Allan's hummingbirds.
Less rare, the Broad-Billed, Blue-Throated, Magnificent, Black-Chinned, Calliope, Broad-Tailed and Rufous hummingbirds also are summer visitors.
Look for Anna's and Costa's hummingbirds in the winter.
The most well-known species, the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, has its habitat in the eastern half of North America and ordinarily will not be found in Arizona.
Fascinating Facts
Unlike so many other migrating birds that can be seen flying in formation or in large flocks, hummingbirds migrate individually. This may be because they are so small that predators have difficulty seeing them, and flocking together would make them an easier target. Also, their size prevents their creating air currents that other hummingbirds can ride on. Another important reason for their lone journey is their imperative need for frequent feeding stops.
While the distance that different species migrate varies widely, the Rufous Hummingbird has the longest journey, flying over 2500 miles from Alaska to the southwestern part of the United States.
Contrary to a popular myth, hummingbirds do not migrate on the backs of other birds.