for Elegant Trogons—the unicorn sighting among birdwatchers in Southern Arizona—plus other rarities such as Elf Owls and Red-Faced Warblers. Bring a pair of binoculars and quietly walk the hiking trails to view gorgeous birds like White-eared hummingbirds, Berylline hummingbirds, Lucifer hummingbirds, Violet- crowned hummingbirds, Broad-tailed hummingbirds, and Blue-throated hummingbirds. You aren’t limited to just spotting birds on the trails, though. Also within Madera Canyon are Clark’s spiny lizards, whitetail deer, blue fungus beetles, Arizona bark scorpions, and Sonora mud turtles. Santa Rita Lodge, Madera Canyon, Arizona Santa Rita Lodge is a well-known birding hotspot in Madera Canyon. The lodge’s feeders attract a variety of hummingbirds, making it a perfect place to observe these tiny creatures up close. • Feeder Frenzy: Multiple feeders hang around the lodge, drawing in hummingbirds like the Broad- billed and Black-chinned. • Observation Deck: A dedicated deck offers a prime viewing spot for bird watchers. • Guided Tours: The lodge provides guided birding tours to enhance your experience.
Hepatic Tanager, credit Michael Whited
Hummingbirds in the U.S. (Species in Each State) There are an estimated 365 species of hummingbirds in the Americas, with more than 25 species in North America, and more than a dozen of those spend their summers in the United States. Some even live here year-round. Here’s a list of hummingbirds that have been recorded in each of the 50 U.S. states: https:// birdfeederhub.com/hummingbirds-in-each-state/ If you, too, love catching a glimpse of the tiny, vibrant marvels of nature, a list of a few of the West’s top venues follows. Unfortunately for those of you in the East, the West is home to the most hummingbird species, so this is your opportunity to turn your rig West. Madera Canyon and the Santa Ritas, Arizona Riparian woodlands along the Santa Cruz River in Southern Arizona have an international reputation for birdwatching. More than 250 species of birds can be spotted in this pristine area, including 15 species of hummingbirds, but the most activity happens when migrating birds use Madera Canyon as a layover. April and May see the most activity during spring migrations and June and September are the best months to spot hummers. Be on the lookout
Rivoli's Hummingbird, credit Michael Whited
FLYING GEMS
COAST TO COAST MAGAZINE SPRING 2026 | 12
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