Watch Out For These 7 Birds That'll Be Appearing Again In Arizona Backyards During Spring
By Katie Lawrence|Published April 21, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Arizona is a world-class birding destination, with over 550 species and subspecies found in the state. Spring is breeding season for many of them, so your backyard might be getting some winged visitors soon. Here are some of the birds commonly spotted in our neck of the woods:
Many woodpecker species live in Arizona and can be found all across the state. Spring is breeding season for these birds, so you're most likely to hear their signature 'drumming' sound between March and June. This time period is when they mark their territories, create nest cavities, and look for mates. Woodpeckers are attracted to areas with ample insects, berries, seeds, water sources, and shelter -- a hummingbird feeder will do just fine for drawing them to your backyard.
Northern Mockingbirds are widespread in Arizona due to their status as permanent residents. They're impressive little creatures, imitating countless other animals (not just birds)! The species has evolved to coexist with humans, so you'll see them in parks, neighborhoods, and even lawns. Just take care not to get close to a nest, as mockingbirds valiantly defend their territory.
A whopping 13 species of owl live here in Arizona, from the majestic Great Horned Owl shown here to the tiny, adorable Elf Owl. Great Horned Owls, in particular, are year-round residents of the Grand Canyon State, using their strong hunting abilities to pursue prey of equal size. Families love building nests in Saguaros; a scene that never fails to thoroughly warm our hearts.
Many different Trogon species live in tropical forests around the world, but only one - the Elegant Trogon - resides in the U.S. Their rarity makes them a favorite among birdwatchers, who spend spring mornings hiking through oak and sycamore groves to hear the bird's repetitive identifying call. Trogons build their nests in holes created by woodpeckers, so you might be able to cross two birds off your list at once!
The name 'Warbler' is extremely vague and encompasses many different species, not all closely related but sharing similar characteristics such as their small size, big voices, and appetite for insects. There are 51 warblers found in the lower 48 states, and some of the hotspots here in Arizona include the Mazatzal Mountains, Mount Ord, Pinal Mountains, Mount Lemmon, and a few other points of high-elevation.
Over a dozen species of these tiny-but-mighty birds can be found in Arizona, primarily in the southeastern region. A few make their year-round homes in the warmest parts of the state, but the greatest diversity occurs between April and October. The best way to attract hummingbirds to your yard is with nectar, either from tubular or trumpet-shaped red, orange, or deep pink flowers, or a feeder.
Tyrant flycatchers are the largest bird family in the world, containing over 400 species. The Ash-throated Flycatcher is the most common and widespread variety, found everywhere from the Lower Sonoran Desert landscape to dense riparian forests. Flycatchers feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and lizards.
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