Lucifer Hummingbird (Calothorax lucifer), Upper Banning Creek, Mule Mtns., Bisbee, Cochise County

This male Lucifer Hummingbird was photographed by Ken Lamberton on 30 July 2011

Ken states:

"This male Lucifer Hummingbird arrived at my feeders on 22 June 2011, first time in the three years I've lived in the Mule Mountains. A female Lucifer first appeared last fall (see photo ducumentation for September 2010) and returned this year on 5 May 2011. This summer we have several female and at least three males coming to feeders at two residences."

Lucifer Hummingbird is rare everywhere in Arizona away from the east slope of the Huachuca Mountain where it is a regular summer visitor.  Over the last few decades it has become more regular and has expanded its range in Arizona, following a pattern similar to Berylline Hummingbird and possibly Plain-capped Starthroat. 

Note proportionately long down-arching bill, extended (and jagged) gorget. The wingtips fall short of the end of tail and the long tail is held closed.

30 July 2011, photo by Ken Lamberton

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