The Charm of Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are among the most popular of birds to be found in Arizona.
Their colors, their flying antics, their size, and their visits to one’s yard to feed on the nectar of the flowers and/or the feeders that many people make available can provide a bit of entertainment. Of the more than 300 species of hummingbirds to be found in North and South America, only about 15 have been recorded in Arizona, however several of those are very rare visitors.
The largest hummingbird is found in the Andes mountains of South America. It is the Giant Hummingbird and it beats its wings about 12 times per second. The smallest hummer is the Bee Hummingbird found in Cuba and it beats its wings about 80 times per second. Anna’s Hummingbird, often seen in the Tucson area, has an average wing beat of 90 beats per second, the fastest of all hummers.
Hummingbirds are not the fastest flying birds, but these small birds are the only birds that can fly backwards. They can also fly up, down, and in figure-eight patterns.
Hummers are not often seen in groups except at feeders, but there are several collective terms to describe them. According to several sources “a Charm of Hummingbirds” and “a Glittering of Hummingbirds” seem to be the most common.
Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red and yellow, and usually not too bashful about investigating one’s brightly colored shirt. They will build their nests just about anywhere that can provide cover, and food and water, including awnings and planters on one’s patio. The female will use several materials to build a nest, including lint and spider webs. She will form the nest to the size of her body with little room to spare.
A hummingbird feeder or colorful flowers in one’s garden can provide a lot of smiles when these birds come by. Enjoy them.
Surrounding this description is a photo of a Costa’s Hummingbird’s nest with the Hummerlady in residence. This nest fledged three youngsters. Photo: xSPORhunter.
Be aware of the usual suspects in the desert; things that bite, sting, scratch, poke, etc. Uneven ground can make secure footing a concern. Step carefully. Always a good idea to bring some water along.
The park is open 6 AM to 10 PM daily. Current construction to expand and improve the park has closed the south entrance to all except archers. Some trails are also posted and closed. The north entrance off West Tangerine Road is open during posted hours.