Hummingbirds, with their shimmering plumage and incredibly rapid wingbeats, capture attention. They are known for their ability to hover mid-air and fly backward. Their agility allows them to consume nectar, which fuels their high metabolism, often visiting hundreds of flowers daily.
Hummingbirds in Illinois: Species and Habitats
Hummingbirds are present in Illinois, gracing the state’s diverse landscapes. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most commonly observed species, found across much of eastern North America. Males display a vibrant ruby-red throat, while both sexes feature iridescent green feathers on their backs and a white belly. Measuring three to three and three-quarter inches, they are widespread throughout Illinois.
While the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a common summer resident, Illinois occasionally hosts less common or rare visitors. These include the Rufous Hummingbird, sometimes sighted, and very rare visitors like the Black-chinned, Anna’s, Broad-billed, and Allen’s Hummingbirds. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds adapt to various habitats, including woodlands, forest edges, gardens, and suburban areas. They construct delicate, golf-ball-sized nests using materials like spider silk, plant down, and lichen, often camouflaging them in tree branches.
Seasonal Patterns
Hummingbirds follow distinct seasonal patterns as they migrate to and from Illinois. Their spring arrival begins in mid-April, with most arriving by May. Activity at feeders is high in August and September as young and adult birds prepare for their long journey south.
The southward migration commences in late August and continues through September and October. Male hummingbirds often depart earlier than females and younger birds, as they are not involved in raising offspring. This migration is driven by environmental cues such as decreasing daylight hours and changes in food availability, rather than a reliance on feeders. Most Illinois hummingbirds spend winter months in warmer regions, including Mexico and Central American countries like Costa Rica and Panama.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Attracting hummingbirds involves strategic planting and proper feeder maintenance. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to tubular flowers, especially those with red, orange, or pink hues. Native Illinois plants like red columbine, cardinal flower, trumpet honeysuckle, bee balm (wild bergamot), foxglove beardtongue, prairie blazing star, and phlox are excellent choices that provide ample nectar. Incorporating annuals such as fuchsia, petunias, and impatiens can offer additional nectar sources.
Providing hummingbird feeders can supplement natural food sources, especially during migration periods. A simple nectar solution is one part refined white sugar to four parts water (e.g., one cup sugar to four cups water). Avoid using red dye, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful to the birds. Feeders should be cleaned every two to four days, or daily in hot weather, to prevent mold growth. Clean feeders with hot water and dish soap, or a diluted vinegar or bleach solution, followed by thorough rinsing.
Optimal feeder placement enhances attraction and bird safety. Position feeders visibly, about 10 to 15 feet from nearby cover like trees or shrubs, offering a quick escape route. Placing feeders in partial shade helps prevent the nectar from spoiling quickly. Because hummingbirds can be territorial, consider spacing multiple feeders out of sight from each other to reduce competition. In addition to nectar, hummingbirds consume small insects for protein, so avoiding insecticides and planting flowers that attract insects can be beneficial. Offering water through misters, drippers, or shallow fountains is appreciated, as traditional bird baths are often too deep for them.