New Mexico is a vibrant haven for hummingbird enthusiasts, hosting an incredible diversity of these tiny, jewel-like birds. With 16 species documented, including the dazzling Rufous, the delicate Calliope, and the vibrant Violet-crowned Hummingbird, the state offers a feast for the eyes of birdwatchers. These agile flyers migrate through the region, particularly during spring and late summer, painting the skies with their iridescent colors.
The high deserts, lush river valleys, and mountainous areas of New Mexico provide the perfect backdrop for spotting these energetic creatures. Whether visiting feeders in urban gardens or exploring natural habitats, the experience of observing these remarkable birds in their element is unforgettable.
Conservation efforts and a growing appreciation for native flora ensure that New Mexico remains a crucial stopover for hummingbirds on their long migratory journeys.
1. Broad-Tailed Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus platycercus
- Life span: 7-12 years
- Size: 3.5-4.3 in
- Weight: 3-5 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird inhabits the mountainous regions of the western United States, extending into Mexico. Its iridescent green plumage and rosy-red throat in the males, known as a gorget, make it a striking sight amidst the alpine meadows and forests it prefers.
Broad-tailed Hummingbirds prefer nesting in the cooler, higher elevations of New Mexico, often choosing coniferous forests. The female constructs a cup-shaped nest from soft plant materials and spider silk, positioning it on a horizontal branch. These nests are cleverly camouflaged with lichen and moss, making them almost invisible to predators and passersby.
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird’s diet is a delightful combination of nectar from high-altitude flowers and small insects. In New Mexico, these birds are often seen hovering around alpine meadows and gardens, their iridescent plumage flashing in the sunlight. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in pollination, helping to sustain the vibrant ecosystems of their mountainous habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Broad-tailed Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving high-altitude habitats and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Historical data suggests stable populations, but changing environmental conditions could affect their breeding and feeding grounds. Conservationists advocate for continued research and habitat protection to ensure these hummingbirds thrive.
2. Blue-Throated Mountain Gem
- Scientific name: Lampornis clemenciae
- Life span: 5-9 years
- Size: 4.5-5.3 in
- Weight: 4.5-6.5 g
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Blue-throated Mountain-gem, native to the mountains of the southwestern United States and Mexico, features a brilliant blue throat in males and greenish upperparts. It prefers forested regions and high-altitude woodlands, adding a splash of color to these habitats.
The Blue-throated Mountain-gem, found in the mountainous regions of New Mexico, prefers nesting in shady, forested areas. The female constructs her nest from plant fibers and spider silk, often placing it on a low branch or shrub. These nests are well-hidden among the vegetation, providing a safe and secure environment for her young.
The diet of the Blue-throated Mountain-gem in New Mexico consists of nectar from high-altitude flowers and small insects. They are often seen visiting blooming plants in mountainous meadows and gardens, their iridescent blue throats flashing in the sunlight. Their feeding activities are vital for pollination, supporting the diverse plant life in their habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Blue-throated Mountain-gem in New Mexico focus on protecting their high-altitude habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical data suggests that while their populations are relatively stable, ongoing habitat preservation is crucial. Conservationists emphasize the importance of maintaining natural landscapes and promoting the growth of native flowering plants to support these stunning birds.
3. Black-Chinned Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Archilochus alexandri
- Life span: 3-6 years
- Size: 3-4 in
- Weight: 2.5-4.5 g
- Wingspan: 4.3-5.1 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Black-chinned Hummingbird, found primarily in the western United States and northern Mexico, is recognizable by its metallic green body and distinctive black chin bordered by a shimmering violet band. It frequents woodlands, gardens, and deserts.
Black-chinned Hummingbirds in New Mexico often choose the shady, protected branches of deciduous trees or shrubs for nesting. The females skillfully construct their nests using plant down, spider silk, and lichens, creating a sturdy yet flexible home. These nests are typically well-camouflaged, blending seamlessly into their surroundings to protect against predators.
The diet of the Black-chinned Hummingbird is a vibrant mix of nectar from flowering plants and small insects. In New Mexico, these hummingbirds are frequently seen darting among wildflowers and feeders, their rapid movements and agile flight allowing them to hover and sip nectar with precision. Their long, slender bills and specialized tongues make them adept at accessing deep floral tubes.
The conservation status of the Black-chinned Hummingbird in New Mexico has benefited from habitat preservation efforts and public awareness campaigns. Historical records indicate stable populations, but ongoing urban development poses potential threats. Conservationists emphasize the importance of maintaining natural habitats and planting native flowering plants to support these tiny, iridescent birds.
4. Calliope Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus calliope
- Life span: 3-7 years
- Size: 2.75-3.25 in
- Weight: 2-4 g
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird in North America, resides in the western United States and migrates to Mexico. Males are notable for their magenta streaked throat feathers and green upperparts, often seen flitting among mountain meadows and forests.
The Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird in North America, nests in the mountainous regions of New Mexico. The female typically builds her nest in coniferous trees, using plant down and spider silk to create a secure and flexible structure. These nests are small but sturdy, providing a safe haven for her tiny offspring.
The diet of the Calliope Hummingbird in New Mexico is primarily nectar from flowering plants, complemented by small insects. They are often seen flitting among alpine meadows and mountain gardens, their quick, darting movements and tiny size making them a delightful sight. Their role in pollination is vital, helping to maintain the health and diversity of their habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Calliope Hummingbird in New Mexico have focused on protecting their high-altitude breeding grounds and migratory pathways. Historical data suggests that while their populations are relatively stable, ongoing habitat preservation is crucial. Conservationists emphasize the importance of maintaining natural landscapes and promoting the growth of native flowering plants to support these diminutive birds.
5. Rufous Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus rufus
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 2.75-3.75 in
- Weight: 2.5-4.5 g
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
The Rufous Hummingbird, known for its fiery orange-red coloration, migrates from the Pacific Northwest to Mexico. Males display a brilliant orange-red throat and vivid rufous back, while females are more subdued with greenish backs and reddish flanks.
Rufous Hummingbirds are known for their incredible migratory journeys, and in New Mexico, they typically nest in the dense vegetation of riparian areas and forest edges. The female constructs her nest using soft plant fibers and spider silk, often lining it with downy feathers. These nests are well-hidden, providing safety and warmth for the young.
The Rufous Hummingbird’s diet consists primarily of nectar from tubular flowers and small insects. In New Mexico, they are frequently seen feeding on a variety of wildflowers, their vibrant orange-red plumage catching the eye. Their energetic feeding habits not only sustain them but also contribute significantly to pollination, supporting the local flora.
Rufous Hummingbirds have been the focus of various conservation efforts in New Mexico, aimed at preserving their migratory routes and breeding habitats. Historical records show fluctuations in their populations, often linked to habitat loss. Conservation initiatives include habitat restoration and public education on the importance of planting native flowering plants to support these migratory marvels.
6. Lucifer Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Calothorax lucifer
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 2.75-3.5 in
- Weight: 2-4 g
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The Lucifer Hummingbird, seen in the southwestern United States and Mexico, is notable for its long, slightly curved bill and the male’s iridescent violet throat. They are typically found in arid, brushy habitats and rocky slopes.
Lucifer Hummingbirds, found in the arid regions of southwestern New Mexico, often choose rocky slopes and desert canyons for nesting. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers and spider silk, creating a small but sturdy structure. These nests are usually placed low to the ground, camouflaged among the rocks and vegetation.
The diet of the Lucifer Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from desert flowers and small insects. They are often seen visiting agave and other blooming plants, their iridescent violet throats catching the light. Their feeding habits are essential for the pollination of many desert plants, contributing to the ecosystem’s health and diversity.
Conservation efforts for the Lucifer Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on protecting their desert habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical data suggests that while their populations are stable, habitat loss and climate change pose significant threats. Conservationists advocate for habitat preservation and public awareness to support these unique and beautiful birds.
7. Rivoli’s Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Eugenes fulgens
- Life span: 8-12 years
- Size: 4.3-5.5 in
- Weight: 7-9 g
- Wingspan: 7.5-9 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Rivoli’s Hummingbird, known also as the Magnificent Hummingbird, ranges from the southwestern United States to Central America. Males have an iridescent green body and a striking violet crown, while females exhibit more muted green and gray hues, often found in mountainous forests.
Rivoli’s Hummingbirds in New Mexico typically nest in forested areas, often choosing high branches in coniferous trees. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers, moss, and spider silk, creating a small, cup-shaped structure. These nests are well-camouflaged, providing protection and security for the young from predators and harsh weather conditions.
In New Mexico, Rivoli’s Hummingbirds have a diet primarily composed of nectar from a variety of flowering plants, as well as small insects. These birds are often seen hovering around flowers in mountainous regions, their iridescent green bodies and striking violet crowns shimmering in the light. Their feeding habits are essential for pollination, supporting the vibrant plant life in their habitats.
Conservation efforts for Rivoli’s Hummingbirds in New Mexico focus on protecting their forested habitats and ensuring the availability of nectar-rich flowers. Historical records indicate that while their populations have remained relatively stable, habitat loss and environmental changes pose significant threats. Conservationists advocate for the preservation of natural landscapes and the promotion of native plant growth to support these magnificent birds.
8. Allen’s Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus sasin
- Life span: 5-8 years
- Size: 3-3.75 in
- Weight: 2-4 g
- Wingspan: 3.5-4 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Allen’s Hummingbird, found along the coastal areas of California and southern Oregon, exhibits a dazzling green back and rust-coloured flanks. Males have a fiery orange-red throat, making them easily distinguishable as they flit through coastal scrub and gardens.
Allen’s Hummingbirds typically nest in coastal areas and forest edges. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers, down, and spider silk, often camouflaging it with lichens and leaves. These nests are usually placed on low branches or shrubs, providing a safe and sheltered environment for the young.
The diet of Allen’s Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from a variety of flowering plants and small insects. They are often seen visiting feeders and wildflowers, their vibrant orange-red throats and green bodies making them easily recognizable. Their feeding activities play a crucial role in pollination, supporting the health and diversity of their habitats.
Conservation efforts for Allen’s Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving their habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical records show relatively stable populations, but habitat loss and environmental changes pose challenges. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting natural landscapes and planting native flowers to support these stunning birds.
9. Anna’s Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Calypte anna
- Life span: 4-6 years
- Size: 3.9-4.3 in
- Weight: 2-6 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.9 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Anna’s Hummingbird, commonly found along the Pacific coast from southern Canada to northern Mexico, boasts iridescent emerald feathers and a rosy-red crown and throat. This species is a familiar sight in gardens and parks, even in winter.
Anna’s Hummingbirds, commonly found along the Pacific coast, also frequent New Mexico’s urban areas and gardens. The females build their nests using plant fibers, down, and spider silk, often decorating them with lichens for camouflage. These nests are typically placed on tree branches or shrubs, providing a safe environment for their young.
In New Mexico, Anna’s Hummingbirds enjoy a diet rich in nectar from a variety of flowers, as well as small insects and spiders. They are often seen hovering around feeders and flowering plants, their iridescent plumage catching the light beautifully. Their feeding habits are crucial for pollination, supporting the diverse plant life in their habitats.
Anna’s Hummingbirds have benefited from various conservation efforts aimed at preserving their habitats and ensuring food availability. In New Mexico, urban development poses a challenge, but public awareness and habitat restoration projects have been successful. Historical records show that their populations are relatively stable, thanks to ongoing conservation initiatives.
10. Broad-billed Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Cynanthus latirostris
- Life span: 5-7 years
- Size: 3.5-4.3 in
- Weight: 3-5 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The Broad-billed Hummingbird, residing in the southwestern United States and Mexico, is known for its vivid blue throat, green body, and striking red bill. Males display iridescent colours that shimmer in the sunlight, frequently seen in canyons and woodlands.
Broad-billed Hummingbirds in New Mexico typically nest in riparian areas and desert canyons. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers, down, and spider silk, often camouflaging it with lichens and leaves. These nests are usually placed on low branches or shrubs, providing a safe and sheltered environment for the young.
The diet of the Broad-billed Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from a variety of flowering plants and small insects. They are often seen visiting feeders and wildflowers, their striking blue throats and bright red bills making them easily recognizable. Their feeding activities play a crucial role in pollination, supporting the health and diversity of their habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Broad-billed Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving their habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical records show relatively stable populations, but habitat loss and environmental changes pose challenges. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting natural landscapes and planting native flowers to support these colorful birds.
11. Costa’s Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Calypte costae
- Life span: 4-6 years
- Size: 3.5-4 in
- Weight: 2-4 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.1 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Costa’s Hummingbird inhabits the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Males are easily identified by their vibrant purple crown and throat, coupled with a sleek green body, often seen in desert scrub and coastal sage scrub.
Costa’s Hummingbirds in New Mexico typically nest in arid regions, choosing low shrubs and cacti for their nesting sites. The female constructs a compact nest from plant fibers and spider silk, often lining it with soft down. These nests are well-hidden among the vegetation, providing protection from the harsh desert environment.
Costa’s Hummingbirds have a diet consisting mainly of nectar from desert flowers and small insects. In New Mexico, they are frequently seen visiting blooming cacti and desert plants, their vibrant purple crowns and throats gleaming in the sunlight. Their feeding activities play a vital role in the pollination of desert flora, ensuring the survival of these plants.
Conservation efforts for Costa’s Hummingbirds in New Mexico focus on protecting their desert habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical records indicate stable populations, but habitat loss due to development and climate change is a concern. Conservationists emphasize the importance of preserving natural landscapes and supporting native plant growth to aid these beautiful birds.
12. Mexican Violetear
- Scientific name: Colibri thalassinus
- Life span: 5-7 years
- Size: 3.5-4.3 in
- Weight: 6-8 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Mexican Violetear, found in the forests of Mexico and Central America, is a vibrant hummingbird with a shimmering green body and violet patches on its chest and sides. Its striking colours make it a captivating sight in its montane forest habitat.
Mexican Violetears in New Mexico typically nest in forested areas, often choosing high branches in trees. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers, moss, and spider silk, creating a small, cup-shaped structure. These nests are well-camouflaged, providing protection and security for the young from predators and harsh weather conditions.
In New Mexico, Mexican Violetears have a diet primarily composed of nectar from a variety of flowering plants, as well as small insects. These birds are often seen hovering around flowers in forested regions, their iridescent green bodies and violet patches flashing in the light. Their feeding habits are essential for pollination, supporting the vibrant plant life in their habitats.
Conservation efforts for Mexican Violetears in New Mexico focus on protecting their forested habitats and ensuring the availability of nectar-rich flowers. Historical records indicate that while their populations have remained relatively stable, habitat loss and environmental changes pose significant threats. Conservationists advocate for the preservation of natural landscapes and the promotion of native plant growth to support these striking birds.
13. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 3-3.75 in
- Weight: 2-6 g
- Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, prevalent in eastern North America, is recognized by its bright emerald green back and iridescent ruby-red throat in males. These birds are often seen darting among flowers in gardens, woodlands, and meadows during their migratory journey to Central America. They are rare visitors to New Mexico.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds typically nest in deciduous forests and wooded areas. The female constructs her nest using plant fibers, down, and spider silk, often camouflaging it with lichens and leaves. These nests are usually placed on high branches, providing a safe and sheltered environment for the young.
The diet of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from a variety of flowering plants and small insects. They are often seen visiting feeders and wildflowers, their vibrant ruby-red throats and emerald green bodies making them easily recognizable. Their feeding activities play a crucial role in pollination, supporting the health and diversity of their habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving their habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical records show relatively stable populations, but habitat loss and environmental changes pose challenges. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting natural landscapes and planting native flowers to support these beautiful birds.
14. Violet-crowned Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Amazilia violiceps
- Life span: 4-6 years
- Size: 3.5-4 in
- Weight: 4-6 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.1 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The Violet-crowned Hummingbird, with its distinctive violet crown and striking white underparts, is found from the southwestern United States to central Mexico. Its green back contrasts beautifully with the bright white chest and violet head, making it a standout in riparian areas.
Violet-crowned Hummingbirds in New Mexico typically nest in riparian areas and desert scrub. The female builds her nest from plant fibers and spider silk, often camouflaging it with lichens and leaves. These nests are usually placed on low branches or shrubs, providing a safe and sheltered environment for the young.
The diet of the Violet-crowned Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from a variety of flowering plants and small insects. They are often seen visiting feeders and wildflowers, their striking violet crowns and white underparts making them easily recognizable. Their feeding activities play a crucial role in pollination, supporting the health and diversity of their habitats.
Conservation efforts for the Violet-crowned Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving their habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical records show relatively stable populations, but habitat loss and environmental changes pose challenges. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting natural landscapes and planting native flowers to support these vibrant birds.
15. White-eared Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Hylocharis leucotis
- Life span: 5-8 years
- Size: 3.5-4.3 in
- Weight: 3-5 g
- Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The White-eared Hummingbird, found in the mountains of Mexico and occasionally in the southwestern United States, is characterized by its bold white ear stripe and emerald green plumage. The male’s throat is a dazzling mix of red and violet, adding to its vibrant appearance.
White-eared Hummingbirds in New Mexico usually nest in the shady, forested areas of mountainous regions. The female constructs her nest using plant down, fibers, and spider silk, often camouflaging it with moss and lichens. These nests are typically placed on low branches or shrubs, providing a secure and sheltered environment for the young.
The diet of the White-eared Hummingbird in New Mexico consists of nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants and small insects. They are frequently seen visiting feeders and wildflowers, their bold white ear stripes and iridescent green plumage making them easily identifiable. Their feeding activities play a crucial role in the pollination of local flora, supporting the ecosystem’s health and diversity.
Conservation efforts for the White-eared Hummingbird in New Mexico focus on preserving their forested habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources. Historical data suggests that while their populations are relatively stable, ongoing habitat preservation is essential. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting natural landscapes and promoting the growth of native flowering plants to support these vibrant birds.
16. Plain-capped Starthroat
- Scientific name: Heliomaster constantii
- Life span: 5-7 years
- Size: 4.33-4.72 in
- Weight: 6-7 g
- Wingspan: 5.1 – 5.5 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
This rare visitor to southeastern Arizona from Mexico is known for its plain grayish-brown cap and strikingly vibrant throat patch. The Plain-capped Starthroat frequents riparian areas and mountainous regions, adding to the diversity of hummingbird species.
This hummingbird prefers to construct its nests on thin branches, often choosing sheltered locations under tree canopies. The nests are tiny masterpieces, intricately woven from plant fibers, spider silk, and downy materials, creating a snug haven for their eggs. They meticulously shape the nest to be cup-like, ensuring it’s secure and camouflaged. Typically, the female lays two small, white eggs and tends to them diligently, showcasing the species’ dedicated parenting style.
A gourmand of the avian world, the Plain-capped Starthroat thrives on a diet rich in nectar. It frequents flowering plants, extracting nectar with its specialized, slender bill. This diet is supplemented with small insects and spiders, providing the necessary proteins for its energetic lifestyle. They are agile fliers, often seen darting from flower to flower, their iridescent plumage shimmering in the sunlight as they feed. This varied diet not only sustains them but also plays a crucial role in pollination, making them vital to their ecosystem.
Once threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, concerted efforts have been made to protect their natural habitats. Conservationists have worked tirelessly to preserve and restore their environments, promoting the growth of native flowering plants that provide essential food sources. Public awareness campaigns have highlighted the importance of these hummingbirds, leading to increased support for habitat protection.
Where to look for them
Finding hummingbirds in New Mexico is an exhilarating experience, as the state’s varied landscapes provide ideal habitats for these vibrant birds. To spot hummingbirds, visit areas with abundant flowers or feeders, particularly during the spring and late summer migrations. Bring binoculars and a camera, and look for their quick, darting movements and iridescent flashes.
Four Great Areas to Find Hummingbirds:
- Sandia Crest House – Just east of Albuquerque, this high-altitude spot is perfect for seeing Broad-tailed and Rufous Hummingbirds among others.
- Gila National Forest – A diverse landscape offering a chance to see multiple species, including the stunning Rivoli’s Hummingbird.
- Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge – Known for its wetlands and abundant flora, it’s a hummingbird hotspot, especially during migration seasons.
- Santa Fe Botanical Garden – A beautifully maintained garden attracting various hummingbirds with its native plants and feeders.
These locations provide the perfect mix of natural beauty and accessibility, making them prime spots for hummingbird watching in New Mexico.
Conclusion
New Mexico offers a unique haven for hummingbird enthusiasts, with 16 species gracing its diverse landscapes. From the common Black-chinned and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds to the rare Violet-crowned and Lucifer Hummingbirds, each species adds a vibrant touch to the state’s natural beauty. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining this avian diversity, ensuring these dazzling birds continue to enchant residents and visitors alike.
