Hummingbirds are regular seasonal visitors across South Dakota, arriving each spring and departing in the fall. These tiny, fast-moving birds migrate north to breeding territories, bringing them across the entire state. Residents have the best chance to observe them during the summer months. Their appearance signals the warmer season.
The Main Visitors: Species Found in South Dakota
The most common species in the state is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, which regularly breeds in eastern North America. These birds are most frequently observed in the eastern half of South Dakota during the summer breeding season. The male is identified by its iridescent emerald-green back and a brilliant, shimmering red throat, called a gorget, contrasting with a white collar. Females and juveniles lack the red throat patch, appearing green above and white below with faint green spotting on the throat.
Other species, typically associated with the western United States, are transient visitors, especially in the western Black Hills region. The Rufous Hummingbird is a notable example, often seen migrating south in mid-to-late summer. The male Rufous is distinguished by its coppery-orange back and a fiery orange-red gorget.
The Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird species in the United States, is another rare but regularly occurring visitor. The male Calliope features a unique throat pattern of magenta stripes that fork down the sides of its neck. The presence of these western species is often a result of their long migration routes.
The Seasonal Schedule: When Hummingbirds Arrive and Depart
The arrival of hummingbirds depends entirely on their annual migration cycle. The first arrivals, primarily male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, usually appear in the state during late April or early May. They follow the bloom of early nectar sources as they head north toward their breeding grounds.
Southward migration begins after the breeding season, as days shorten and temperatures cool. Adult males are typically the first to leave, starting their journey south as early as late August. Females and newly fledged young follow shortly after, with most hummingbirds having moved out of South Dakota by the end of September.
Simple Steps to Attract Hummingbirds
Attracting hummingbirds relies on providing reliable sources of food, water, and shelter. The most direct way to offer sustenance is through a nectar feeder filled with a simple sugar-water solution.
The ideal ratio is one part plain white granulated sugar to four parts water, which mimics the natural sucrose concentration of flower nectar. Boiling the mixture briefly helps dissolve the sugar and prevent early spoilage. Never include red dyes, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful to the birds.
Feeder placement is important for attracting hummingbirds and keeping the nectar fresh. Hang feeders in a shady location to slow the fermentation of the sugar solution, which spoils quickly in direct sun. Placing the feeder near a tree or shrub provides a perch and cover, encouraging them to stay in the area.
Consistent maintenance is paramount for the health of visiting birds. The sugar water must be changed every two to three days, or daily during very hot weather. Feeders should be cleaned thoroughly with hot water every few days to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
Supplementing feeders with nectar-rich plants provides a natural and continuous food source. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to tubular-shaped flowers, especially those in shades of red and orange. Excellent plant choices for South Dakota gardens include bee balm, petunias, and various types of honeysuckle. Planting native species is beneficial, as they often contain more nectar and support the insects hummingbirds require for protein.