Hummingbirds are abundant in Texas, a state whose immense geographic diversity and strategic location along major migratory flyways make it a frequent destination. Texas serves as an important breeding ground for some, a brief stopover point for others, and even a winter home for a few unique populations. This strategic location ensures that hummingbirds are a frequent sight across the state for much of the year.
Key Hummingbird Species in Texas
Texas hosts a variety of hummingbird species, categorized by their residency status, from summer breeders to year-round residents. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common species, observed particularly in the eastern half of the state where it arrives in spring to breed. Its range extends west to about the 98th meridian, where its territory begins to overlap with the next most common species.
The Black-chinned Hummingbird is a prominent summer resident and breeder across West and Central Texas, occupying drier habitats, often in river valleys and wooded areas. In contrast, the Rufous Hummingbird is mainly a transient migrant, traveling through the western quarter of Texas during its long seasonal journey.
The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is the most notable year-round resident, establishing territories almost exclusively in South Texas, particularly in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. This species is one of the largest found in the state, and its presence allows for hummingbird sightings even in the middle of winter.
Migration Timing and Routes
The seasonal movement of hummingbirds through Texas creates two distinct periods of peak activity. Spring migration begins in late February, with the first male arrivals appearing along the Gulf Coast and in South Texas by mid-March. This northward journey peaks between mid-March and early May as the birds head to their breeding grounds.
Texas is a corridor for both eastern and western migratory routes. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds use the state as a staging area before attempting a non-stop flight over the Gulf of Mexico, or they follow an overland route through Mexico. Western species like the Rufous Hummingbird utilize Texas as a stopover, following the Central Flyway on the western side of the state.
The fall migration reverses the flow, beginning in late August and peaking throughout September and October. The state becomes a fueling station as the birds double their body weight to prepare for the long flight south. Keeping feeders available until two weeks after the last sighting ensures late migrants and juveniles have sufficient resources.
Methods for Attracting Hummingbirds
Providing a reliable food source is the most effective way to encourage hummingbirds to visit. Feeders should be filled with a simple sugar-water solution mixed in a ratio of one part refined white sugar to four parts water. Avoid adding red dye to the solution, as the coloring is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the birds.
The nectar mixture should be replaced frequently to prevent fermentation and spoilage, which can happen quickly in warm Texas temperatures. Change the solution every two to three days, or daily when temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Feeders must also be cleaned thoroughly with hot water and a brush each time the solution is replaced to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.
Planting native, nectar-rich flowers is an equally important method for long-term attraction and support. Hummingbirds prefer tubular flowers in red or orange hues, which signal a high nectar content. Excellent native Texas choices include various species of Salvia, Turk’s Cap, and Trumpet Honeysuckle.
A garden that offers a continuous bloom cycle ensures a steady supply of natural food throughout the spring and fall migration periods. Combining well-maintained feeders with native flowering plants creates an inviting habitat that supports these high-energy visitors.