Hummingbirds in Arizona: where to see them and how to identify them
Yes, hummingbirds are widespread across Arizona, especially in the southern mountains and canyons. Start at the Santa Catalina Mountains or Ramsey Canyon Preserve for the best odds. Most species arrive in spring and stay through summer, with peak activity in July and August during early morning and late afternoon.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Rivoli's Hummingbird · Dan Vickers CC BY
Black-chinned × Broad-billed Hummingbird · William Harmon CC BY
Berylline Hummingbird · psweet CC BY-SA
- 8
- species recorded
- 1,780,601
- GBIF records
- 6
- birding hotspots
- April, August, May
- peak months
Yes, hummingbirds are in Arizona. Next you'll want:
What hummingbird sound like
Verified field recordings from Xeno-canto. Press play to hear the calls birders listen for in the field.
Rivoli's Hummingbird · call, short rattle
0:05Portal, Arizona · © Richard E. Webster CC BY-NC-SA · XC133506
Blue-throated Mountaingem · call, perched warning calls
0:05Portal, Arizona · © Richard E. Webster CC BY-NC-SA · XC132503
Lucifer Sheartail · call, wing buzz
0:08Portal, Arizona · © Richard E. Webster CC BY-NC-SA · XC132966
Verified species, source iNaturalist
15 types of hummingbirds recorded in Arizona
15 hummingbird species have a verified observation record in Arizona across the hummingbird family (Trochilidae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Also recorded in Arizona
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | White-eared HummingbirdNativeBasilinna leucotis | Basilinna leucotis | 322 |
| 14 | Plain-capped StarthroatHeliomaster constantii | Heliomaster constantii | 100 |
| 15 | Allen's HummingbirdSelasphorus sasin | Selasphorus sasin | 34 |
Plus 1 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
39,117 verified observations on iNaturalist of hummingbird have been recorded in Arizona, most often in April, August, May.
When hummingbird are recorded in Arizona
Yes, hummingbirds are widespread across Arizona, especially in the southern mountains and canyons. Start at the Santa Catalina Mountains or Ramsey Canyon Preserve for the best odds. Most species arrive in spring and stay through summer, with peak activity in July and August during early morning and late afternoon.
Where in Arizona are hummingbirds most likely to be seen?
Hummingbirds in Arizona are most likely in the southeastern part of the state, especially in the Huachuca, Santa Rita, and Chiricahua mountains. Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia are reliable spots. You'll find them near streams, oak woodlands, and blooming agaves. The desert lowlands are less productive, so start with the higher elevations.
See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
What is the best season or time of day for hummingbird sightings?
The best season is from April through September, with July and August being the peak months when many species come to feed on wildflowers and nectar. Early morning, around sunrise to 9 AM, and late afternoon, 4-6 PM, are the most active times. during the heat of midday they often rest in shade.
How to identify hummingbirds in Arizona by key markers?
Look for the iridescent throat patch (gorget) on males: a brilliant ruby red on Ruby-throated, but in Arizona you're more likely to see the Broad-tailed's rose-red throat, or the Black-chinned's purple band. Note tail shape and sound of wings: Broad-tailed males produce a distinctive metallic trill in flight. Size also helps: Magnificent (now Rivoli's) is noticeably larger than most. Always check the bill length and shape for definitive ID.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What are the most common hummingbird species in Arizona?
The most common species include the Broad-tailed, Black-chinned, and Magnificent (Rivoli's) hummingbirds. In the lower deserts, you'll also see Costa's and Anna's. The Rufous hummingbird passes through during migration, often in large numbers. Each has distinct markings and behaviors, so a good field guide is helpful.
Where are the top hummingbird watching locations in Arizona?
Top spots include the Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia, Ramsey Canyon Preserve near Sierra Vista, and the Santa Rita Lodge in Madera Canyon. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Superior is also great. For a more remote experience, try the Chiricahua Mountains. These locations have feeders and natural habitats that draw many species.
What should I bring for a day of hummingbird spotting?
Bring binoculars with close focus (8x or 10x), a field guide to hummingbirds of the Southwest, water, sun protection, and a camera with a fast shutter speed. If you want to remember your sighting, consider a small memento like a hummingbird sticker or garden magnet.Check out our hummingbird-themed itemsto commemorate your trip.
Cartoon Wild Animals Digital Collage Magnets
Cheerful hummingbird garden-themed magnet. Ceramic with glossy finish.Check Price and Availability
Hummingbird Garden Art Print
Product from otherCheck Price and Availability
Which hummingbird products from Easy Street Markets complement your Arizona birding trip?
After a day in the field, bring home a piece of the experience with these carefully selected items:
Long Animals Sticker Sheet, Cute Stickers, Kawaii Stationery, Glitter, Toploader, Deco Stickers, Funny Animals, Animal Lover Gift
This translucent vinyl sticker captures the stained glass look of a hummingbird. Stick it on a window or water bottle to brighten your day.Check Price and Availability
Cartoon Wild Animals Digital Collage Magnets
A cheerful hummingbird magnet for your fridge or toolbox. Ceramic with a glossy finish and a garden theme.Check Price and Availability
Funny Embroidered Capybara Baseball Cap
A soft cotton cap with delicate hummingbird embroidery. Perfect for gardeners or casual birders.Check Price and Availability
For more, browse ourwildlife shirtsand otherhummingbird items.
Are hummingbirds in Arizona year-round?
Some species, like the Anna's hummingbird, can be found in Arizona year-round in mild lowland areas. However, most species migrate to Mexico and Central America in the fall. The peak diversity and numbers occur during the summer breeding season.
What is the best way to photograph hummingbirds in Arizona?
Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 or faster) and a telephoto lens with good reach. Position yourself near feeders or flowers with a plain background. Pre-focus on a perch to catch them hovering. Be patient and avoid sudden movements.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see hummingbird in Arizona: April, August, May
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your hummingbird sighting in Arizona
1,780,601 verified hummingbird records have been logged in Arizona, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Arizona
- Chiricahua National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Coronado National Memorial · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Fort Bowie National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Grand Canyon National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Montezuma Castle National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Patagonia Lake State Park · 362 species recorded
- Portal · 354 species recorded
- Willcox--Lake Cochise and Twin Lakes Golf Course · 341 species recorded
- Riparian Preserve at Gilbert Water Ranch · 333 species recorded
- Sweetwater Wetlands · 331 species recorded
- San Pedro RNCA--generic (historical only, not for current checklists) · 328 species recorded
Birding hotspots via eBird (Cornell Lab).
Frequently asked questions
What hummingbird species live in Arizona?+
Hummingbirds in Arizona are most likely in the southeastern part of the state, especially in the Huachuca, Santa Rita, and Chiricahua mountains. Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia are reliable spots. You'll find them near streams, oak woodlands, and blooming agaves. The desert lowlands are less productive, so start with the higher elevations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
Where can you see hummingbirds in Arizona?+
Hummingbirds in Arizona are most likely in the southeastern part of the state, especially in the Huachuca, Santa Rita, and Chiricahua mountains. Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia are reliable spots. You'll find them near streams, oak woodlands, and blooming agaves. The desert lowlands are less productive, so start with the higher elevations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
When is the best time to see hummingbirds in Arizona?+
Hummingbirds in Arizona are most likely in the southeastern part of the state, especially in the Huachuca, Santa Rita, and Chiricahua mountains. Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia are reliable spots. You'll find them near streams, oak woodlands, and blooming agaves. The desert lowlands are less productive, so start with the higher elevations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
Keep exploring
More places to see hummingbird
More wildlife in Arizona