Southeast Arizona: Sky Island Birding Paradise

Southeast Arizona stands as one of North America's most extraordinary birding destinations, where desert meets mountains in a dramatic landscape known as the Sky Islands. These isolated mountain ranges rising from the Sonoran Desert create unique ecosystems that host the highest diversity of hummingbirds in the United States and sought-after Mexican specialties found nowhere else in the country.

The Elegant Trogon: Arizona's Holy Grail

The Elegant Trogon is the most sought-after bird in Arizona, and Madera Canyon in the Santa Rita Mountains is the easiest and most reliable place to find this stunning species. These vibrant tropical birds nest in the canyons from April through September, with males displaying brilliant red breasts and metallic green backs. The first mile of trails like Super Trail and Carrie Nation Trail offer the best chances for sightings.

Hummingbird Capital of America

Southeast Arizona hosts over 15 species of hummingbirds, the highest diversity in the United States. Ramsey Canyon Preserve has earned the title 'Hummingbird Capital of America' with species including Violet-crowned, Blue-throated Mountain-gem, Magnificent, Black-chinned, Broad-billed, and the rare Lucifer Hummingbird. Peak diversity occurs from late July through August during the monsoon season when flowers are abundant and birds from Mexico disperse northward.

Sky Island Specialties

The unique Sky Island ecosystems host numerous Mexican species at the northern limit of their range. Red-faced Warbler, Olive Warbler, Mexican Spotted Owl, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, and Mexican Chickadee can all be found in these mountain habitats. Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains is particularly renowned for its diversity of flycatchers and warblers.

Best Birding Locations

Madera Canyon is the best-known site, offering easy access to montane habitats with excellent trails and feeding stations. Ramsey Canyon Preserve requires reservations but provides unmatched hummingbird viewing. Cave Creek Canyon in Portal offers remote wilderness birding with cave-nesting species. The Patagonia area, including Paton Center for Hummingbirds, is famous for rare Mexican vagrants.

When to Visit

Southeast Arizona offers year-round birding, but two seasons stand out. Spring migration from mid-April through May brings migrants passing through alongside resident specialties. The monsoon season from July through August offers peak hummingbird diversity, increased bird activity, and spectacular afternoon thunderstorms. Winter months can be excellent for finding rare Mexican species and overwintering birds without the summer heat.