If you’re a birder, you won’t want to miss this lovely bi-annual event! The hummingbird migration through the Tucson area is a remarkable natural phenomenon that occurs primarily in the fall and spring.
Tucson, Arizona, sits along one of the major migration routes for several species of hummingbirds, including the Anna's Hummingbird, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, and Broad-billed Hummingbird.
(Black chinned Hummingbird)
Fortunately, one of my clients’ is an avid watcher and shares his photos, so I can share with you! All information is deemed reliable, but name under each photo came from client)
(Peacock Hummingbird)
During their migration, hummingbirds travel thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in North America and their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. Tucson, with its teaming desert landscape and abundance of flowering plants, serves as an important stopover point for these tiny birds to refuel on nectar and insects before continuing their journey.
(Broad billed Hummingbird)
To attract hummingbirds to their yards during migration, Tucson residents often set up feeders filled with sugar water (don’t use red dye!) or plant gardens with a variety of nectar-producing flowers such as penstemons, salvias, lantana and desert honeysuckles. These resources provide essential fuel for the birds during their long journey. If you’re interested in setting up feeders, be sure to follow the directions to help keep our traveling friends healthy!
(Star of October)
Local wildlife organizations and nature centers sometimes host events or guided tours focused on hummingbird migration, providing education and opportunities for people to experience this natural spectacle firsthand. There are several day trips and local spots to catch all sorts of flying fauna.
(Female Rufous)
Overall, the hummingbird migration through the Tucson area is a beautiful and awe-inspiring event that highlights the resilience and adaptability of these remarkable birds as they undertake their incredible journey across vast distances.
(Male Rufous)
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(Adult Male Anna)
I love when people post photos of the hummingbirds perching on their fingers or hands - I've never been so lucky.
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