Hummingbirds are a common sight across California, with many species frequenting the state’s diverse landscapes. While some remain year-round, others are migratory, traveling through or to the state during specific seasons. This dynamic pattern means California’s hummingbird population is a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors, contributing to the vibrant avian life found here.
California’s Hummingbird Residents and Travelers
California hosts a variety of hummingbird species, including permanent residents and seasonal migrants. The Anna’s Hummingbird is a year-round resident, found throughout much of California, including coastal and urban environments. These adaptable birds thrive in areas with consistent food sources. The Costa’s Hummingbird is another resident, found year-round in Southern California’s desert climates, preferring warmer, arid regions.
The Allen’s Hummingbird also has both migratory and resident populations within California. While some migrate to central Mexico for winter, a subspecies remains year-round, particularly in the Channel Islands and around Los Angeles. These birds are frequently found along the Pacific Coast. In contrast, species like the Rufous Hummingbird are primarily migratory visitors, passing through the state for only a few weeks.
Other migratory species include the Black-chinned Hummingbird, widespread across the western United States, mostly as a breeding-season resident or during migration. The Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird in the United States, also migrates through California on its way to breeding grounds further north or wintering grounds in Central Mexico. These migratory species utilize California as a stopover or temporary home during their annual travels.
The Hummingbird Migration Cycle
Hummingbird migration is an annual phenomenon, driven by the availability of food sources like nectar and insects. Diminishing daylight hours signal to these birds that it is time to embark on their long journeys. Most North American hummingbirds, including those that pass through California, travel south to Mexico or Central America for the winter. This ensures they have access to abundant flowers and insects even during colder months.
The timing of these migrations varies by species and individual. Southbound migration from California occurs in late summer to early fall, around August or September. Rufous Hummingbirds, for instance, are often among the earlier departures. Conversely, spring migration sees these birds returning north to their breeding grounds, with some arriving in Southern California as early as January or February. This northward movement allows them to take advantage of blooming flowers and insect populations in their breeding territories.
Hummingbirds often follow established routes, such as the Pacific Flyway, which runs along the western coast of North America. During their journeys, they must frequently stop to refuel, making coastal areas and montane meadows important stopover points. Some species, like the Calliope Hummingbird, travel thousands of miles between their breeding and wintering grounds.
Helping Hummingbirds in California
Supporting hummingbirds in California involves creating environments rich in their preferred food sources and safe from harm. Planting native, nectar-producing flowers is an effective way to attract and sustain these birds. Plants such as salvias, fuchsias, and penstemons provide nectar throughout the year, benefiting both resident and migratory species. Avoiding pesticides is also important, as hummingbirds consume small insects for protein, and these chemicals can harm their food supply and the birds themselves.
Providing hummingbird feeders can supplement natural food sources, especially when nectar is scarce. Feeders should be filled with a simple solution of one part white granulated sugar to four parts water. Avoid using red dye, which is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Regular cleaning of feeders, at least every few days, prevents the growth of mold and bacteria that can sicken hummingbirds.
Strategic placement of feeders and plants enhances their effectiveness. Positioning feeders near windows allows for easy observation, while placing them in areas protected from predators offers a safer feeding spot. Creating a diverse garden with a continuous bloom cycle ensures that hummingbirds have access to food throughout the changing seasons, providing support for both year-round residents and migrants passing through California.