Hummingbirds are known for their incredibly fast wingbeats, reaching up to 80 flaps per second, and their diminutive size, making them the smallest birds in the world. They can hover in mid-air, allowing them to drink nectar from flowers with precision. These iridescent visitors are found in Idaho, spending the warmer months in the state before migrating south. This article explores when they arrive, which species are common, and how residents can welcome them.
The Primary Idaho Species
Idaho hosts several species of hummingbirds, but three are the most commonly sighted summer residents: the Calliope, the Rufous, and the Black-chinned hummingbirds. The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest bird species in North America, measuring only about three inches long. Males are recognized by their striking, magenta-streaked throat feathers, which fan out when they display.
The Rufous Hummingbird is known for its aggressive nature and vibrant, orange-red plumage on the male’s back and belly. This species is tenacious, often chasing larger birds away from their feeding territories. Females and juveniles show metallic green on their backs with rust coloring on their flanks and tail.
The Black-chinned Hummingbird is widespread across the western United States. It is characterized by the male’s black throat, which is bordered by a thin, iridescent strip of violet when viewed in light. This species is adaptable, often appearing in urban areas as well as natural settings. A fourth species, the Broad-tailed Hummingbird, is a regular breeder in southern Idaho’s high-elevation forests.
Seasonal Arrival and Departure
The presence of hummingbirds in Idaho is seasonal, driven by their migration to and from wintering grounds in Mexico. The first wave of migrants, primarily the Calliope and Black-chinned hummingbirds, arrives in late April to early May, signaling the start of spring in the mountain West. This timing coincides with the emergence of early-blooming wildflowers, providing nectar sources after their journey.
The Rufous Hummingbird follows a clockwise migration route, traveling north along the Pacific Coast in the spring. They return south in late summer, following the Rocky Mountains through Idaho, where they are seen in peak numbers during July and August. The breeding season spans the summer months, with females building nests and raising their young without the male’s assistance.
Most hummingbirds begin their southbound departure as early as August, though some linger into September. This fall migration is crucial, as the birds must fuel up for the long flight back to their wintering habitat. Residents supporting these travelers should keep their feeders clean and full until late September to provide a final, needed energy source.
Preferred Habitats Across the State
Hummingbirds utilize Idaho’s varied landscape, with different species preferring distinct elevations and ecosystems. The Calliope and Broad-tailed hummingbirds are mountain dwellers, favoring the high-elevation meadows and montane conifer forests of central and southern Idaho. They often nest between 4,000 and 9,000 feet, relying on native wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and columbine.
The Black-chinned Hummingbird is more common in the lower elevations, inhabiting the valleys and lowland riparian corridors, such as those along the Snake River and in the Treasure Valley. This species prefers habitats near water with mature trees, which they use for perching and nesting. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in human-altered landscapes, including orchards and suburban gardens.
The Rufous Hummingbird is less constrained by elevation and can be found across a broad range of habitats as they pass through the state. During the summer, they frequent forest edges, shrubby meadows, and clearings where they seek out nectar and insects. These birds are successful near any area with an abundance of nectar-producing plants, regardless of whether it is a remote wilderness or a populated park.
Simple Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
One of the most direct ways to attract these birds is by providing a clean, consistent source of sugar water in a feeder. The nectar solution should be a ratio of one part white granulated sugar to four parts water, mimicking the natural sugar content of flower nectar. Avoid using red dye, as it is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the birds.
Feeder hygiene is paramount, especially during the warm Idaho summer, as the sugar solution can ferment quickly. Feeders should be cleaned and refilled every two to three days, or even daily during extreme heat, to prevent mold growth. Placing feeders near protective cover, such as trees or tall shrubs, offers perching spots and security from predators.
To supplement feeders, planting nectar-rich flowers is highly effective, as hummingbirds favor blossoms with a tubular shape. Excellent choices for Idaho gardens include perennial favorites like Bee Balm, Penstemon (Beardtongue), and various species of Salvia (Sage). Native plants such as Western Columbine and Scarlet Gilia are reliable attractants, ensuring a steady, natural food supply throughout the summer.