Arizona’s diverse geography and topography, ranging from desert lowlands and riparian areas to forested mountains and grasslands, create many habitats that support an impressive variety of bird species. The state’s proximity to Mexico further enhances its avian diversity, allowing for the presence of both temperate and subtropical species. As a result, Arizona ranks third in the United States for the highest number of recorded bird species, surpassed only by California and Texas — two coastal states with extensive shorelines that attract a broader range of seabirds and migratory species.
The variety of bird species makes Arizona a prime destination for bird-watchers from all over the world.
570 different species of birds have been recorded in Arizona. The Arizona Bird Committee is the organization that maintains a checklist of all bird species that have been observed in the state. However, not all of these 570 species can truly be considered Arizona birds. Some are rare visitors—species that have arrived by accident, perhaps blown in by storms or strayed off course during migration. Others may have temporarily extended beyond their usual range, particularly birds typically found in Mexico.
These unexpected visitors often create excitement among birders when they are spotted in the state. Seeing such rare birds usually requires considerable effort, and some you are not going to see, like the Bumblebee Hummingbird, which was last recorded in 1896.