Hummingbirds are adding splashes of avian color to deserts and woodlands of Southeastern Arizona this spring, with their whirring wings and fancy feathers attracting attention in backyard gardens, parks and scenic natural areas.
“Spring and fall are definitely the heaviest hummingbird seasons because some species are migrating through the area at those times of year,” said Keith Ashley, coordinator for the Tucson Audubon Society’s Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia.
The Paton Center and Madera Canyon south of Tucson are among several excellent spots for finding a variety of hummingbirds. Viewing sites in Tucson include the garden at the Audubon Society’s headquarters, 300 E. University Blvd.
PATON CENTER VIEWING
Ashley said 16 species of hummingbirds have been seen at the Paton Center, but some of those are rare and uncommonly seen.
Among the species seen often at the center are the broad-billed, black-chinned, magnificent, Anna’s, Costa’s, broad-tailed and rufous varieties.
Rarely-seen species include berylline and lucifer hummingbirds.
MADERA VIEWING
Fourteen species of hummingbirds have been seen in Madera Canyon, according to a publication of the Friends of Madera Canyon group.
The Santa Rita Lodge, in the canyon about 40 miles south of Tucson, has a bird and wildlife viewing area that’s open to the public at no charge.
“People are welcome to park and enjoy the birds,” said lodge owner Steve Holt, noting that visitors will see many species in addition to hummingbirds — including wild turkeys on some days.
Nature photographer Steve Kaye visited Madera Canyon this week, using a long telephoto lens to zero in on fast-flitting hummingbirds.
“I came here to take photos of hummingbirds because I want those photos for my talk at the annual hummingbird festival in Sedona late this summer,” Kaye said.
