Broad-billed Hummingbird

Identification

The broad-billed hummingbird is a small hummingbird, measuring 8–10 cm (3.1–3.9 in) long and weighing only 3–4 grams. Its most distinctive feature is its long, bright reddish bill with a black tip, visible in both sexes. The bird's metallic green upperparts contrast with duller colouring on the crown and forehead, making it recognizable even at a distance.

Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in this species. Males are dark green with a striking blue throat or gorget, white undertail-coverts, and a blackish-blue tail. Females are paler underneath with a white eyestripe behind the eye and white-tipped tail feathers. Juveniles resemble females more closely than males, though young males gradually develop the characteristic red bill and iridescent throat feathers within 6–8 months.

Range & Habitat

The broad-billed hummingbird resides in Mexico and the southwestern United States, with three recognized subspecies distributed across different regions. In the United States, it is found along streamsides and in oak woodlands, particularly in southeast Arizona, southwest New Mexico, and rarely in southwest Texas. The bird favours areas with Arizona sycamore, Fremont cottonwoods, and mesquite.

Throughout Mexico, the species occurs at nearly every elevation, from sea level to 3,048 meters high. Along the Pacific coast, it is a common resident of arid thorn forests, tropical deciduous forests, and riparian gallery forests. In Sonora, Mexico, it is the most common hummingbird species. During breeding season, it frequents desert canyons and low mountain oak woodlands throughout the Southwest and into central Mexico.

Behaviour & Diet

The broad-billed hummingbird is highly diurnal, being more active during daylight hours. Both males and females produce a distinctive chatter that resembles a rapid "chi-dit," similar to the note of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. This vocalization can be made while perching or in flight. Males also produce a whining "zing" display call, though little is known about their full song repertoire.

Northern breeding populations in the United States, Sonora, and Nuevo León are migratory, departing in early November and returning in early March, with birds believed to winter deeper in Mexico. Most populations residing in central and southern Mexico are permanent residents. The species has also hybridized with Rivoli's hummingbird and the Violet-crowned hummingbird.

Best Time & Places to See It

The broad-billed hummingbird is best observed during the breeding season from March through early November in the southwestern United States. In Arizona and New Mexico, streamside canyons with dense vegetation and oak woodlands are prime locations. For year-round viewing, central and southern Mexico offer the best opportunities, particularly in riparian gallery forests and arid thorn forests along the Pacific coast and in regions like Sonora.

Within the United States, southeast Arizona and southwest New Mexico are the most reliable locations during breeding season. Migration periods in early spring and late autumn can also be productive for observation. Those seeking views outside the breeding season should focus on Mexico, where most populations are permanent residents.

Photography Tips

The broad-billed hummingbird's brilliant red bill and metallic green plumage offer excellent photographic opportunities. The male's blue gorget is particularly striking when illuminated by bright sunlight, so position yourself with the sun behind or to the side of the bird for optimal colour saturation. Early morning light is ideal for capturing the iridescence of the male's gorget.

Focus on streamside habitats and flowering plants within oak woodlands and canyon areas, as the bird frequently visits these locations. Fast shutter speeds are essential due to the rapid wing beats of hummingbirds. The bird's relatively small size requires patient stalking, but its diurnal activity pattern and preference for open habitats make it more accessible than many other hummingbird species.