Yes, hummingbirds are a common and highly anticipated seasonal sight throughout Pennsylvania. These tiny, acrobatic birds visit the state every year, arriving in the spring to breed and staying through the summer months. Their presence is marked by a brief, bustling period of high-energy activity before they embark on one of the most impressive annual journeys in the animal kingdom. The opportunity to observe these magnificent fliers is available to residents across urban, suburban, and rural landscapes.
The Primary Species and Seasonal Presence
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the only species that regularly nests east of the Mississippi River. Both sexes have brilliant, iridescent green backs and pale bellies. Males are distinguished by a metallic-red throat patch, called a gorget.
They begin arriving in late April, with males appearing slightly before the females. Their arrival coincides with the blooming of early native nectar sources, such as Wild Columbine. They remain throughout the summer, utilizing forested edges, meadows, and backyard gardens for food and nesting.
Breeding activity peaks in late May and June. Individuals can be seen statewide, favoring areas with tall trees for perching and open space for foraging. By late August and early September, the population begins to thin as birds prepare for their southward journey, though some may linger until early October.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Creating a welcoming environment involves offering natural nectar sources and feeders. The most effective way to provide immediate energy is by using a sugar water solution of one part plain white sugar to four parts water. Avoid using red dyes in the mixture, as the birds are naturally attracted to the red parts of the feeder itself.
Feeders must be cleaned frequently, ideally every two to three days during warmer weather, to prevent mold and fermentation. The sugar solution spoils quickly and can become harmful if left too long. Hang feeders in a partially shaded spot; this helps slow spoilage and makes the birds feel more secure while feeding.
For a sustainable, long-term attraction, plant native Pennsylvania flowers that offer the tubular, brightly colored blooms hummingbirds prefer. Excellent choices include the Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Bee Balm (Monarda didyma), and Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens).
Planting a variety of species ensures a steady supply of food from spring arrival until autumn departure. The tubular shape of flowers is perfectly suited to the bird’s long bill and tongue.
Understanding Their Annual Migration Journey
These birds travel thousands of miles during their annual migration to reach wintering grounds, primarily located in southern Mexico and Central America. To prepare, they consume large amounts of nectar and insects, increasing their body weight by up to 50 percent to fuel the journey.
Many individuals undertake a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of up to 500 miles over open water. This demanding flight takes approximately 18 to 20 hours. The instinct to migrate is triggered by hormonal changes linked to the reduction in daylight hours, not the availability of food.
It is helpful to keep feeders filled well into late September and early October. This provides much-needed fuel for late-season travelers, including young birds or those migrating from farther north. Once you have gone two full weeks without a single sighting, it is safe to take the feeders down for the winter.