11 Types of Hummingbirds in Arkansas (Pictures and Identification)

Arkansas is a surprisingly exciting place for anyone who loves watching hummingbirds. Every spring and summer, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds return in bright flashes of green and red, filling gardens and forest edges with rapid wingbeats and energetic chases. Their arrival marks the start of the state’s hummingbird season, a time when feeders buzz from dawn to dusk.

But the real thrill for hummingbird enthusiasts comes later in the year. As fall approaches, Arkansas becomes a crossroads for wandering western species. Rufous Hummingbirds blaze through in fiery orange, tiny Calliopes occasionally appear, and rare visitors like Broad-billed or Buff-bellied Hummingbirds show up at lucky backyard feeders. Every unusual sighting feels like a surprise gift.

This guide brings together all eleven hummingbird species recorded in Arkansas, from the common to the incredibly rare. With identification tips, behavior notes, and seasonal patterns, it helps bird lovers make the most of every visit to the feeder and every moment spent watching these remarkable flying jewels.

Different Types of Hummingbirds Found in Arkansas

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common hummingbird in Arkansas and the only species that breeds regularly across the state. Males are easily recognized by their shimmering red throat, emerald-green back, and rapid flight style, while females show green upperparts and white underparts. Their buzzing wingbeats and darting movements make them unmistakable around flowers and feeders.

This species measures about 3 to 3.5 inches long and weighs less than a penny, yet it is capable of extraordinary feats of flight. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds hover effortlessly, fly backward, and dart with precision while feeding on nectar or catching tiny insects mid-air. Their long, slender bills and extendable tongues allow them to reach deep into tubular flowers.

In Arkansas, they appear statewide from spring through early fall. They arrive as early as late March and remain until October, thriving in gardens, woodlands, suburban neighborhoods, and areas rich in blooming plants. Backyard feeders filled with sugar water often attract them throughout the warm months.

A fun fact is that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds migrate across the Gulf of Mexico in a single nonstop flight of up to 500 miles, an astonishing journey for such a small bird.

Rufous Hummingbird

The Rufous Hummingbird is a fiery, energetic species known for its bold orange coloration and remarkable migration endurance. Males display bright rufous plumage with a glowing reddish-orange throat, while females are greener with rufous touches on the sides of the body and tail. Their aggressive nature makes them noticeable around backyard feeders in winter.

This species is about 3 inches long but is one of the most territorial hummingbirds in North America. Rufous Hummingbirds chase away much larger birds and guard feeding sites fiercely. They feed on nectar from flowers and feeders, as well as small insects that provide essential protein during long migration journeys.

In Arkansas, Rufous Hummingbirds are regular winter visitors. They appear mostly from November through February, especially in areas where people maintain warm-season feeders. Many records come from suburban backyards, where reliable food sources support their winter stay.

A fun fact is that Rufous Hummingbirds migrate farther than any other hummingbird species, traveling up to 4,000 miles between Alaska and Mexico each year.

Black-chinned Hummingbird

The Black-chinned Hummingbird is a slender, somewhat understated species that appears in scattered numbers across Arkansas during migration. Males show a black throat with a thin, iridescent purple band at the bottom, while females appear mostly green and white with a clean, delicate look. Their longer wings and more flexible feeding behavior help distinguish them from other species.

This hummingbird measures about 3.25 to 3.5 inches long and is known for its remarkable wing speed, often reaching 50–60 beats per second. They hover with ease and feed on a wide variety of flowers, adapting quickly to available nectar sources. Their diet also includes tiny insects captured in flight or plucked from foliage.

In Arkansas, Black-chinned Hummingbirds occur mostly during the spring and fall migration periods. They are seen more frequently in central and western regions of the state, where they pause at feeders or rest in forest edges and shrubby thickets. Although they do not breed in Arkansas, individuals may remain for several weeks while refueling.

A fun fact is that the rapid wingbeats of Black-chinned Hummingbirds produce a unique low-pitched hum, noticeably different from the sounds made by Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.

Calliope Hummingbird

The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest bird in North America, making its occasional appearance in Arkansas especially impressive. Males have a striking magenta streaked gorget, while females show green upperparts and buffy flanks. Their tiny size and quick, flickering movements often cause them to be mistaken for large insects at first glance.

This species measures only about 2.75 to 3 inches long, yet it is a surprisingly strong migrant capable of long-distance travel. Calliope Hummingbirds use their miniature size to maneuver rapidly between flowers, and they feed on nectar as well as small insects. Their flight is agile and quiet compared to larger hummingbirds.

In Arkansas, Calliope Hummingbirds appear only occasionally, usually during late fall or winter. Most sightings occur at backyard feeders maintained during the colder months. Their rarity makes them an exciting find for hummingbird enthusiasts and birdwatchers in the region.

A fun fact is that despite being the smallest bird in North America, the Calliope Hummingbird migrates thousands of miles each year between Canada and Mexico.

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

The Broad-tailed Hummingbird is a high-elevation species in the western United States, but it appears occasionally in western Arkansas during migration. Males display a bright rose-red throat and iridescent green upperparts, while females and juveniles are green with buffy sides. One of their most distinctive features is the loud trilling sound made by their wings during flight.

This species measures about 4 inches long, making it slightly larger than many other hummingbirds found in Arkansas. It feeds on nectar from tubular flowers and supplements its diet with small insects. Broad-tailed Hummingbirds are strong hoverers and capable of rapid changes in direction.

In Arkansas, they occur mainly during spring and fall migration, with most records coming from the western part of the state. They visit feeders, woodland openings, and flowering gardens, though they are not nearly as common as Ruby-throated or Rufous Hummingbirds.

A fun fact is that male Broad-tailed Hummingbirds produce a distinct metallic trill as air passes through their wing feathers. This sound can be heard from a surprising distance as they fly or display.

Anna’s Hummingbird

Anna’s Hummingbird is a rare but increasingly regular visitor to Arkansas, especially during winter. Males are striking, with iridescent rose-pink gorgets and crowns that shine brightly in sunlight. Females show green upperparts with subtle pink spotting on the throat. Their calm, confident behavior makes them stand out among other hummingbirds at feeders.

This species measures about 4 to 4.3 inches long and is slightly larger than the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Anna’s Hummingbirds are known for their strong, direct flight and ability to remain active even in colder temperatures. They feed on nectar, small insects, and tree sap when available.

In Arkansas, they appear mainly from late fall through winter, often visiting heated or well-maintained backyard feeders. Their arrival typically follows weather shifts that push them eastward from the West Coast, where they live year-round. Most sightings occur in central and western Arkansas.

A fun fact is that male Anna’s Hummingbirds perform spectacular dive displays, producing a loud chirping sound as air rushes through their tail feathers during courtship flights.

Allen’s Hummingbird

Allen’s Hummingbird is a very rare visitor in Arkansas and can be easily confused with the Rufous Hummingbird due to its orange and green plumage. Males show a bright orange body with a shimmering red throat, while females appear mostly green with rufous tones along the tail. Careful observation is needed to distinguish them from similar species.

This hummingbird measures about 3.5 inches long and is compact with rapid wingbeats. It feeds on nectar from flowers and feeders, as well as tiny insects caught during aerial foraging. Although small, it displays bold territorial behavior when competing for food sources.

In Arkansas, Allen’s Hummingbirds are mostly recorded during fall or winter migration drift. They are considered accidental visitors, appearing at well-maintained backyard feeders in scattered parts of the state. Identification often requires photographs or expert confirmation.

A fun fact is that Allen’s Hummingbirds migrate along the Pacific Coast, making sightings in Arkansas remarkable examples of long-distance wanderers.

Broad-billed Hummingbird

The Broad-billed Hummingbird is a brightly colored southwestern species that appears only rarely in Arkansas. Males display a vivid turquoise-blue throat and green body, complemented by a distinctive bright red bill with a black tip. Females are more subdued in color but still show the characteristic red base of the bill.

This hummingbird measures about 3.5 to 4 inches long and is known for its energetic hovering and quick movements. It feeds on nectar from desert flowers in its native range but adapts well to garden feeders when wandering outside its normal habitat. Its brilliant colors make it one of the easiest hummingbirds to identify when present.

In Arkansas, Broad-billed Hummingbirds show up mostly during late fall or winter at backyard feeding stations. Records are scattered and infrequent, but each sighting creates excitement among birdwatchers. They typically remain only briefly before continuing their wanderings.

A fun fact is that the male’s bright red bill is unique among hummingbirds in North America, making it a standout feature for identification.

Buff-bellied Hummingbird

The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is a Gulf Coast species that occasionally wanders into Arkansas during fall or early winter. It features a metallic green back, cinnamon-buff belly, and a long red bill with a black tip. Its warm underparts make it easy to distinguish from other hummingbirds in the region.

This species measures about 4 to 4.3 inches long and is slightly heavier than many other hummingbirds. It feeds on nectar from flowering plants, sugar water from feeders, and insects gleaned from foliage. Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are strong, adaptable migrants capable of traveling far beyond their usual coastal range.

In Arkansas, they appear mostly in the southern and central regions during late fall. Their presence at feeders is unpredictable but not unheard of, especially in mild winters. Observers often document them through photographs due to their rarity.

A fun fact is that Buff-bellied Hummingbirds can be surprisingly territorial and may guard feeders aggressively despite their elegant appearance.

Green Violet-ear (Mexican Violetear)

The Green Violet-ear is one of the rarest hummingbirds ever recorded in Arkansas. This tropical species is native to Mexico and Central America and is known for its dazzling emerald-green plumage and violet patches on the face. Its vibrant colors make it unforgettable when spotted far outside its normal range.

This hummingbird measures around 4.5 to 5 inches long, making it larger than most hummingbirds found in the United States. It feeds on nectar from tropical flowers but adapts readily to garden feeders when wandering north. Its loud, sharp call is another clue to its presence.

In Arkansas, sightings are extremely rare and usually involve single wandering individuals that appear in late summer or fall. They often stop at backyard feeders, allowing lucky observers to document their visits. These occurrences are considered exceptional birding events.

A fun fact is that Green Violet-ears are known for long-distance wandering behavior and have been recorded as far north as Canada despite being a tropical species.

Blue-throated Mountain-gem

The Blue-throated Mountain-gem is among the rarest hummingbirds to appear in Arkansas, originating from mountainous regions of the southwestern United States. Males exhibit a brilliant blue throat, gray breast, and green upperparts, while females appear more subdued but share the same overall structure. Its size and robust build set it apart from smaller hummingbirds.

This species measures about 4.5 to 5.25 inches long, making it one of the largest hummingbirds recorded in the United States. Blue-throated Mountain-gems prefer shaded forest canyons in their native habitat and feed on nectar as well as flying insects. Their strong, direct flight makes them powerful foragers.

In Arkansas, this species is considered extremely rare, with only very limited records. Most sightings occur at backyard feeders where they briefly stop during unusual migration movements. Because of their large size and distinct markings, they are typically easy to recognize when they do appear.

A fun fact is that male Blue-throated Mountain-gems can produce loud wing noises during courtship flights, creating a mechanical buzzing sound that echoes through mountain forests in their home range.

Best Time and Places to See Hummingbirds in Arkansas

Arkansas is one of the best places in the central United States to observe a wide variety of hummingbirds, especially during migration. The peak time to see most species is from late March through early October, when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds breed and migrate through the state. Fall is particularly productive, as many western species such as Rufous, Allen’s, and Calliope Hummingbirds wander east and appear at backyard feeders. Winter also brings special opportunities, with Rufous and Anna’s Hummingbirds frequently overwintering in the region.

The best places to observe hummingbirds depend on habitat and season. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds occur statewide in gardens, forest edges, wetlands, and suburban yards. Western strays such as Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, Allen’s, and Calliope Hummingbirds appear most often at maintained backyard feeders in central and western Arkansas. Coastal wanderers like Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are usually reported in southern Arkansas during fall. Extremely rare species, including the Green Violet-ear and Blue-throated Mountain-gem, are typically found only at private feeding stations during unusual migration years.

To maximize sightings, keep clean feeders filled with a fresh 4:1 sugar-water solution and plant nectar-rich flowers such as salvia, coral honeysuckle, and bee balm. Early morning and late afternoon offer the highest hummingbird activity, especially during late summer when migration peaks.

FAQs About Hummingbirds in Arkansas

How many hummingbird species are seen in Arkansas?

Arkansas has one regular breeding species, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, but more than ten other species appear during migration or winter as rare or accidental visitors.

When do hummingbirds arrive in Arkansas?

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds typically arrive in late March or early April. Western species such as Rufous and Black-chinned appear mostly during fall and winter.

What is the best month to see rare hummingbirds?

September through December is the most productive period for spotting rare western hummingbirds at backyard feeders. Many unusual species drift east during fall migration.

Do hummingbirds spend winter in Arkansas?

Yes. Rufous Hummingbirds are regular overwintering visitors, and Anna’s Hummingbirds increasingly stay through winter. Other species appear occasionally during the colder months.

What should I put in a hummingbird feeder?

Use a simple 4:1 mixture of water and white sugar. Do not add dye or honey. Clean feeders every few days in warm weather to prevent mold and fermentation.

Can hummingbirds survive freezing temperatures?

Some species, especially Rufous and Anna’s Hummingbirds, tolerate cold weather well. They enter torpor at night to conserve energy, allowing them to survive freezing conditions.

Conclusion

Arkansas offers an exceptional window into the world of hummingbirds, from the familiar Ruby-throated Hummingbird to a surprising array of rare western and tropical wanderers. The state’s mix of habitats, combined with seasonal migration patterns, creates year-round opportunities for birdwatchers to enjoy these brilliant, fast-moving birds.

Maintaining nectar feeders, planting hummingbird-friendly flowers, and watching closely during fall and winter can lead to unforgettable sightings. With patience and a bit of luck, Arkansas becomes a vibrant crossroads of hummingbird diversity.