Are There Hummingbirds in Idaho?

Yes, hummingbirds do nest in Idaho. Multiple species breed and raise young there during the warmer months, with nests often built in trees, shrubs, or even on structures like buildings.

The most abundant hummingbird species in the state is the black-chinned hummingbird, which is particularly common in valleys, lowlands, and populated areas like the Treasure Valley.

Black-chinned hummingbirds favor nectar from tubular, brightly colored flowers. One of their preferred native plants is scarlet bugler (Penstemon centranthifolius), a drought-tolerant perennial with red tubular blooms that provide ample nectar. They also frequently visit salvias, agastaches, and currants.

Idaho spans multiple USDA plant hardiness zones, ranging from 3b (average minimum temperatures of -35°F to -30°F) in the highest elevations to 7b (5°F to 10°F) in warmer lowlands. The state includes zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b, varying by region—northern and mountainous areas are cooler (3b-5b), while southern valleys trend warmer (6a-7b).

Black-chinned hummingbirds typically nest in Idaho from May through July, with arrival in late April to early May and young fledging by mid-July to early August. They may produce one or two broods per season, depending on conditions.