Hummingbirds do visit Iowa, but their presence is entirely seasonal. These tiny, acrobatic birds travel thousands of miles to spend their breeding season in the state before returning south for the winter. Iowa’s summer landscape provides a temporary habitat for one primary species that dominates the region’s hummingbird population.
Iowa’s Primary Hummingbird Species
The vast majority of sightings across Iowa belong to the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the only species that regularly breeds east of the Mississippi River. These birds are easily identified by their iridescent emerald-green backs and crowns. Males display a striking, shimmering ruby-red throat patch, known as a gorget, contrasting with a white chest. Females lack this red patch, having a white or pale throat instead.
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is small, weighing about the same as a nickel, and is recognized by its rapid wing beats that create a buzzing sound. Although rare, there have been occasional sightings of other species, most notably the Rufous Hummingbird, which is more common in the western United States. The Rufous Hummingbird is distinguishable by the male’s coppery-orange back and throat, but these visitors are considered accidental vagrants to Iowa.
Migration and Seasonal Residence
Hummingbirds are not year-round residents of Iowa, arriving after completing a migration from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. The timing of their arrival is consistent, with the first males appearing in Iowa around mid-to-late April. Females follow shortly after, arriving a week or two later.
Iowa serves as the species’ northern breeding range, where they mate, build nests, and raise their young throughout the summer. As summer ends, the birds prepare for their southward journey, which is triggered by the shortening of daylight hours rather than a lack of food. Fall migration begins in late August, with most of the population departing by the end of September.
During autumn, local birds are joined by others migrating from areas farther north, leading to a temporary increase in population. This migratory influx results in peak sightings across the state through mid-September as the birds stop to refuel. A few stragglers may linger into early October if the weather remains mild, before the last birds complete their journey south.
Simple Ways to Attract Hummingbirds
Attracting hummingbirds involves providing two primary resources: a reliable nectar source and suitable habitat features. A homemade sugar-water solution is an effective way to supplement their natural diet. The recommended recipe is one part white granulated sugar dissolved in four parts water.
Use only white sugar and avoid adding red food coloring, as the dye offers no benefit and may be harmful to the birds. Feeders should be cleaned thoroughly every two to three days in warm weather to prevent mold or fermentation, which can sicken the birds. Placing the feeder in a partially shaded area near natural cover, like trees or shrubs, encourages visitors by offering a safe resting spot.
Planting nectar-rich flowers is an effective way to draw hummingbirds. These birds are drawn to tubular flowers, often in shades of red, orange, or pink. Excellent choices that provide abundant nectar and thrive in Iowa include:
- Bee Balm
- Cardinal Flower
- Trumpet Creeper
- Salvia
- Columbine
- Phlox