Costa's Hummingbird
A small desert and coastal-scrub hummingbird that visits nectar flowers and clean feeders across parts of the Southwest.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Watch flowering desert washes, sage scrub, chaparral, native garden shrubs, and quiet feeder stations from late winter into spring.
Food
Nectar from desert and coastal flowers plus tiny flying insects caught around vegetation.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
One useful next step
Build for the habitat, not just the feeder.
Plant locally appropriate nectar flowers such as chuparosa, ocotillo, sage, penstemon, and monkeyflower, with small perches nearby.
See the yard actionsA good yard is layered
Food helps, but cover, clean water, native plants, and a safe distance from hazards make a more dependable place for birds.
Costa's Hummingbird habitat
Plant locally appropriate nectar flowers such as chuparosa, ocotillo, sage, penstemon, and monkeyflower, with small perches nearby.
Costa's Hummingbird diet and food
Nectar from desert and coastal flowers plus tiny flying insects caught around vegetation.
Use a clean 1:4 white-sugar-to-water feeder with no dye; place a second feeder out of direct competition and clean it often.
How to attract it
Food & feeder
Nectar from desert and coastal flowers plus tiny flying insects caught around vegetation.
Cover & plants
Plant locally appropriate nectar flowers such as chuparosa, ocotillo, sage, penstemon, and monkeyflower, with small perches nearby.
Costa's Hummingbird nesting and breeding
The female makes a small spider-silk cup in desert shrubs or trees; never prune, stake, or photograph close to an active nest.
Costa's Hummingbird behavior and where to look
Hovers at flowers and defends nectar territories from favorite exposed perches; males make looping display flights.
Photography
Photograph from a natural perch or flowering plant in soft light rather than crowding a feeder or nest.
What to avoid
Never use red dye, honey, or artificial sweeteners; keep feeders clean and provide more than one to reduce conflict.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
