Hummingbird Species in Massachusetts
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most commonly observed hummingbird in Massachusetts, representing most sightings. These small birds measure about 3.5 inches long and weigh less than a quarter of an ounce. Adult males are easily identified by their iridescent emerald green backs and crowns, contrasting with gray-white underparts. They possess a distinctive, brilliant ruby-red throat patch that can appear dark or black depending on the light angle.
Female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds share the metallic green upperparts but lack the red throat, with white or dusky underparts and white tips on their outer tail feathers. While the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the sole breeding species in eastern North America, other species like the Rufous, Black-chinned, Calliope, and Allen’s hummingbirds have been recorded as rare or accidental visitors. These western species are observed during fall migration when they are often blown eastward off their usual routes.
Seasonal Migration Patterns
Hummingbirds are migratory birds, traveling between their wintering grounds in Central America or Mexico and their breeding territories. In Massachusetts, male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds arrive in late April to early May, with females following a week or two later, by the second half of May. This spring migration involves long, non-stop flights, such as across the Gulf of Mexico.
Their departure from Massachusetts begins in late summer, with most hummingbirds leaving by the end of August or early September. Males are the first to depart, followed by females and juveniles who build energy reserves for their journey. Changes in daylight duration, decreasing flower availability, and insect populations are the primary environmental cues that trigger these southward migrations.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard
To welcome hummingbirds in Massachusetts, providing both feeders and nectar-rich plants is most effective. A sugar-water solution for feeders is made by mixing one part white sugar with four parts water until dissolved. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dyes, as these can be harmful to the birds. Placing feeders in visible, sheltered spots, such as near trees or shrubs, can encourage visits.
Maintaining feeder hygiene is essential to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can sicken them. In hot weather, feeders should be emptied and cleaned every one to two days, while in cooler temperatures, cleaning twice a week may suffice. A solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water is used for cleaning, followed by thorough rinsing. Leaving feeders up until at least two weeks after the last sighting in the fall helps late migrants.
Supplementing feeders with nectar-rich flowers enhances a yard’s appeal, as hummingbirds visit hundreds of flowers daily. They are particularly drawn to brightly colored, tubular flowers, especially red and orange varieties. Excellent choices for Massachusetts gardens include Trumpet Vine, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Bee Balm, Cardinal Flower, Columbine, Salvia, Petunia, and Impatiens. Planting a variety of these flowers ensures a continuous nectar supply throughout the season, creating a welcoming habitat.