White-eared Hummingbird
Size: The White-eared Hummingbird is a small hummer of about 3 3/4 inches.The red bill is slighty shorter than the Broad-billed Hummingbird.
Identifying Characteristics: The white supercilium is always present in both male and female and sets it apart from the other hummers. Other than that it is very similar to the Broad-billed, with red bill, and dark body (although not quite as dark - more green than blue).
Habitat: Pine-oak woodlands and riparian canyons of higher elevation. Rarely found below the oak belt.
Range: Extreme southern tip of Arizona. Abundant in the Sierra Madre of Mexico.
Seasons: April through September.
Where To Find: Probably the most reliable spot is Miller Canyon. Secondary spots are Ramsey and Carr Canyon in the Huachuca's. You might also find it along the Santa Cruz River near Rio Rico Ponds. Further away, Portal is good possibility.
Comments: This is another rare hummingbird that doesn't come to the US in big numbers. Maybe two or three pairs at the Miller Canyon feeders.
Although, it is frequently seen it doesn't hang around the feeders all day. It might require a 20 to 30 minute wait to see one. They are strikingly beautiful so it is certainly worth the wait.
The White-eared is also a very assertive hummer with the males aggressively guarding nectar sources.
They will also hover near their food source providing wonderful mid-air photos.
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