Hummingbirds are a common, seasonal sight across Indiana. These tiny, acrobatic birds travel thousands of miles to spend their breeding season in the Hoosier State. Nearly every sighting belongs to a single species, making identification straightforward for residents.
Identifying Indiana’s Primary Hummingbird
The species responsible for almost all hummingbird activity in the state is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris). This bird measures only about three and a half inches long and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce. Their small size allows them to beat their wings more than 50 times per second to achieve their signature hovering flight.
The male is easily identified by his iridescent ruby-red throat patch, called a gorget, which appears dull black unless caught in direct sunlight. Both sexes share a bright metallic green back, head, and wings, but the female lacks the red gorget and displays a plain white throat.
While they need high-energy nectar, these birds also require protein from consuming small insects and spiders. This protein is particularly important for the female, who feeds her young a diet composed almost exclusively of invertebrates for rapid growth. Their long, needle-like bill probes deep into flowers to lap up the sugary liquid.
The Indiana Hummingbird Calendar
The presence of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Indiana follows a predictable migratory cycle. The birds typically arrive from their Central American wintering grounds around mid-April. Males usually arrive first to establish feeding territories, with females following shortly after to begin the breeding season.
Throughout the summer, the birds are busy foraging and nesting, with activity peaking during mid-summer. By late July, the first individuals, often adult males, begin their southward journey as the breeding season concludes. This marks the beginning of the fall migration window.
The peak migration wave across Indiana occurs throughout September. Residents may observe increased numbers at feeders as birds from farther north pass through to refuel. Most of the population has departed by the end of September, traveling toward their winter homes in southern Mexico and Central America.
Practical Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
Providing a clean, artificial nectar source in a feeder is an effective way to attract and support hummingbirds. The recommended mixture is a simple solution of one part plain white granulated cane sugar dissolved into four parts water. Avoid adding red food coloring, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as these substances can be harmful.
The sugar water should be boiled to dissolve the sugar, then cooled completely before being placed in the feeder. In warm summer weather, the nectar should be changed and the feeder thoroughly cleaned every two to three days to prevent mold or fermentation. Leaving feeders up late into the fall provides a necessary energy source for late-season travelers.
Planting native flowers is another method for creating a reliable food source. Hummingbirds prefer tubular flowers, especially those in bright red or orange hues. Excellent native options for Indiana yards include Bee Balm (Monarda species), Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), and Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis). These plants supply nectar and attract the small insects that form a substantial part of the hummingbird diet.