Arizona's diverse geography supports a wide range of birds, from those that live there year-round to those that migrate through. In the hot lower desert, resident birds adapt by keeping their bodies warm and eating moisture-rich foods like plants and insects. In winter, Arizona becomes a haven for many bird species escaping colder northern climates and scarce food. This influx adds to Arizona's rich bird population, underscoring its importance as a permanent habitat and a crucial stopover for migrating birds.
This section shows birds that have been photographed around our home in Mesa which has a wide variety of vegetation which attract birds and butterflies.
Neighborhood hummingbard in flight chasing a bug.
Curved-bill Thrasher stopping by the back yard birdbath for a drink.
A dove and a finch rest combatibly together on a bird food block. When there's plenty of food, it's easier to get along.
Hummingbird with a closeup of Ocotillo blooms
American Kestrels are often seen perched on elevated structures, (such as our back yard fence) scanning for prey.
Looks like this hummingbird is saying, "Why hello there!"