Hummingbirds are present in Nebraska, arriving as regular seasonal guests each year. While the state is not considered their primary domain, the spring and summer months see a consistent influx of these birds. Nebraska serves as a temporary habitat along a major migratory route, particularly for the most common species. These visitors are a reliable fixture of the warmer season, providing excellent viewing opportunities for local bird enthusiasts.
Confirmed Hummingbird Species in Nebraska
The most anticipated and frequently observed hummingbird in Nebraska is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. This species is the only one that regularly breeds in the eastern half of the state, with nesting reports extending as far west as North Platte. Adult males are easily identified by their iridescent, emerald green backs and the distinctive, fiery ruby-red patch on their throats, known as a gorget.
Females of the species share the metallic green back but lack the bright red throat patch, instead showing a white or pale streaked throat. Beyond the Ruby-throated, several other species are occasionally sighted, generally as rare or accidental visitors. The Rufous Hummingbird, known for its aggressive defense of feeding territories, may stray into the western part of Nebraska, typically during the fall migration.
Rare western visitors documented include the Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, and Calliope Hummingbirds. Their appearance is often a result of weather patterns or navigational errors during their long journeys. The Ruby-throated remains the species most residents will encounter, making it the focal point of local hummingbird watching efforts.
The Nebraska Hummingbird Migration Calendar
The arrival of hummingbirds in Nebraska signals the start of spring. The first males typically arrive around late April or early May, having migrated from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. These early arrivals immediately begin establishing and defending breeding territories, a behavior that makes them quite visible.
Female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds usually follow the males by a week or two, arriving to select mates and begin the nesting process. Nebraska’s summer months provide ample food and habitat for these birds, as they raise their young before preparing for the return trip south. The return migration begins relatively early, with adult males often departing first in late July or early August.
Most of the population, including females and juveniles, will leave Nebraska by late August or early September. The decision to migrate is primarily driven by an internal biological clock and the diminishing daylight hours, not the lack of food at feeders. However, some stragglers may remain into late September, and it is generally recommended to keep feeders active until at least the end of that month to assist any late travelers.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Providing a reliable food source encourages hummingbirds to visit your yard. The recommended nectar solution mimics natural flower nectar and consists of one part plain white granulated sugar dissolved in four parts water (a 1:4 ratio). Avoid using red food dye, honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners, as these ingredients can be harmful to the birds.
Feeder cleanliness is important, as mold and fungus can be detrimental to hummingbird health. The nectar should be changed every two to three days, or daily during periods of high heat, and the feeder must be thoroughly cleaned with hot water each time. Placing feeders out by mid-April ensures they are available for the first males arriving from their long journey.
Complementing feeders with specific plants offers a more natural and sustainable food source. Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to tubular, brightly colored flowers rich in nectar. Native Nebraska plants known to attract these birds include Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Scarlet Bee Balm (Monarda didyma), and Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens). Planting these varieties will keep hummingbirds nourished throughout the breeding season.