Hummingbirds are present across Georgia throughout the year. These tiny, high-energy fliers are recognized by their ability to hover and their incredibly fast wing beats, which can reach over 50 strokes per second. Their metabolism requires a near-constant supply of nectar and small insects to sustain them. Georgia’s climate and varied habitats provide a welcome environment for these avian visitors.
The Hummingbird Species Found in Georgia
The vast majority of hummingbirds seen regularly in Georgia during the breeding season belong to a single species: the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris). This species is the only one known to nest east of the Mississippi River, establishing breeding territory across the state. The adult male is easily identified by its iridescent emerald-green back and a brilliant, metallic red throat patch, known as a gorget.
Female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds share the metallic green back but lack the red throat, displaying a white or lightly streaked chest and white tips on their outer tail feathers. These birds prefer habitats along the borders of woodlands and meadows, providing mature trees for nesting and open areas with flowering plants for foraging. The female constructs a walnut-sized nest, typically raising up to two broods each year in Georgia.
While the Ruby-throated is the common summer resident, the state hosts a variety of other species, primarily as winter visitors. The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus), a western species, is the most frequently observed wintering hummingbird in Georgia. Other documented visitors during the cooler months include the Black-chinned, Calliope, and Allen’s Hummingbirds.
Seasonal Presence and Migration Patterns
The arrival of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird marks the beginning of spring in Georgia, with the first males typically appearing in late February or early March. The main wave of migrants continues through March and April, settling into breeding territories. The breeding season extends through the summer months before the autumn departure begins.
The fall migration begins as early as late August, with the majority of the population departing by mid-October. These birds travel an impressive distance to their wintering grounds in southern Mexico and Central America, often making a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico. This movement is not dictated by a lack of food but by the shortening of daylight hours, which triggers a hormonal change that signals the need to migrate.
A small number of hummingbirds, mostly Rufous but occasionally others, will remain in Georgia throughout the winter. These winter residents are often western species that have strayed from their typical migration routes to the Pacific coast. To survive colder temperatures, hummingbirds can enter a state of torpor, drastically lowering their heart rate and body temperature to conserve energy.
Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Yard
Supporting hummingbirds involves providing reliable food sources and a safe habitat. When using feeders, the proper sugar-water solution mimics natural nectar and consists of a ratio of one part table sugar dissolved in four parts water. Boil the water for a few minutes before adding the sugar, allowing the mixture to cool completely before filling the feeder.
Feeder cleanliness is paramount to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can be harmful. Nectar should be changed every two to three days, especially in warmer weather. The feeder should be periodically cleaned with a mild solution of one part bleach to ten parts water, followed by a thorough rinsing. Place feeders in a shady location near natural cover, such as trees or shrubs, to offer protection.
Planting native, nectar-rich flowers is an excellent way to provide natural sustenance for hummingbirds. They are strongly attracted to tubular flowers, especially those in red or orange hues, which signal a high-sugar reward. Specific plants that thrive in Georgia and attract the birds include trumpet honeysuckle, cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), bee balm, and trumpet vine.
A diverse garden with blooming plants throughout the season ensures a continuous food supply, supplementing the use of feeders. To maintain a safe foraging environment, gardeners should minimize the use of insecticides, as hummingbirds also rely on small spiders and insects for the protein necessary to raise their young. Furthermore, avoid adding red food dye to homemade nectar, as this is unnecessary and poses potential health risks to the birds.