Hummingbirds are present across Michigan during the warmer months of the year. The species that dominates the state is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the only species that regularly breeds in eastern North America. These tiny birds arrive in the spring to take advantage of the state’s summer resources before beginning their migration south. While other species like the Rufous Hummingbird are occasionally spotted, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the summer resident Michiganders can rely on seeing.
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird measures between 2.8 and 3.5 inches in length and weighs less than a nickel, typically averaging around 3 to 4 grams. Both sexes display a metallic, emerald-green coloration on their backs and crown, contrasting with grayish-white underparts. The most distinguishing feature is the male’s iridescent throat patch, known as a gorget, which flashes a brilliant ruby-red in the sunlight but can appear dull black from other angles.
Females lack the bright red throat, instead having a plain white or lightly streaked throat. These birds construct their cup-shaped nests, which are about the size of a large thimble, on slender, slightly drooping branches of deciduous or pine trees. The female builds the nest using plant down and spider silk, which is then camouflaged on the exterior with bits of moss and lichen. This construction technique makes the nest appear like a natural knot on the branch, protecting the two tiny eggs she will lay and raise alone.
Seasonal Presence and Migration Timing
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a seasonal summer visitor to Michigan, undertaking one of the most incredible migrations for a bird of its size. The first arrivals typically begin to trickle into the southern Lower Peninsula in late April to early May. Males usually arrive first to establish their breeding territories, with the females following shortly after.
The peak arrival window in the northern parts of the state usually occurs closer to mid-to-late May, following the progression of spring bloom. Their departure begins as the summer breeding season concludes and the days shorten. Adult males are the first to begin the journey south in late August, with females and the young of the year departing throughout September.
The final birds are generally gone by late September or early October, traveling to wintering grounds that stretch from Florida to Central America. This journey often includes a strenuous, non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of up to 500 miles, which requires an immense energy reserve. The birds build up significant fat reserves during late summer and early fall to power this impressive feat of aerial endurance.
Attracting and Maintaining Feeders
Providing nectar feeders is a reliable way to interact with these territorial and high-energy birds, especially during their arrival and departure periods when natural nectar sources may be less abundant. The proper sugar-water solution should mimic natural nectar, using a ratio of one part refined white cane sugar to four parts water. It is unnecessary and potentially harmful to add red food coloring, as the red color of the feeder itself is sufficient to attract them.
Feeder maintenance is important to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can make the birds sick. The solution should be replaced frequently, ideally every two to three days, or daily during periods of high heat, as the sugar water can ferment quickly. Cleaning the feeder once a week with a mild vinegar and water solution helps ensure a safe food supply. Placing feeders in a location with some shade can help slow the fermentation process, and hanging multiple feeders far apart can reduce territorial disputes.
Beyond feeders, planting native flowers with tubular shapes provides a natural and consistent food source. Excellent native choices include bee balm (Monarda), cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), and trumpet honeysuckle. These plants also attract the small insects and spiders that hummingbirds need for protein, which is an important component of their diet.