West · Pacific Flyway

Are There Rufous Hummingbirds in California?

Selasphorus rufus — Trochilidae

UncommonAbundance
Migrant / TransientSeasonal status
5Active months
41,133Observations

Is the Rufous Hummingbird Found in California?

Rufous Hummingbirds do occur in California, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during migration windows.

Rufous Hummingbird is a North American backyard bird.

In California, this species is classified as uncommon. It passes through California during migration. The best months to observe this bird are March, April, July, August, September. Peak activity occurs in April.

Monthly Activity — Rufous Hummingbird in California

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

FamilyTrochilidae
View full Rufous Hummingbird profile →

Best Time to See Rufous Hummingbird in California

January
Low
February
Low
March
Peak
April
Peak
May
Active
June
Low
July
Peak
August
Peak
September
Active
October
Low
November
Low
December
Low

Other birds in California

Birds you might also encounter in California.

Rufous Hummingbird in other states

Rufous Hummingbird in California: Quick Facts

The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is an uncommon bird in California. It is classified as a migrant / transient in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.

The best months to spot this species in California are March, April, July, August, September. For birders in Los Angeles and throughout California, knowing the seasonal patterns of Rufous Hummingbird can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in California using the related birds section.