Hummingbirds, with their iridescent plumage and aerial acrobatics, captivate observers across North America. These tiny birds are known for their rapid wingbeats, which create a distinctive humming sound, and their ability to hover mid-air while feeding. Their presence in various regions is tied to specific times of the year, marking the changing seasons with their arrival and departure.
The Annual Hummingbird Journey
Each year, most North American hummingbird species undertake extensive migratory journeys between their breeding grounds and warmer wintering habitats. The majority spend winters in Mexico or Central America, with some venturing into South America. This migration is a solitary endeavor for individual birds.
Northward spring migration begins as early as February in southernmost regions, with many species reaching the southern United States by March or April. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, common east of the Rocky Mountains, arrive along the Gulf Coast by early March and gradually move northward through April and May. Their journey continues into northern states and Canadian provinces, with arrivals occurring by early May.
The return journey south for winter commences in late July or early August, continuing through September and October. Males often initiate this southward migration earlier than females and juveniles. By late October, the last stragglers cross the southern U.S. border, reaching their wintering grounds where they spend months preparing for the next spring’s journey.
Timing Across Different Regions
The specific months when hummingbirds are present vary significantly depending on geographic location within North America. In southern areas, particularly along the Pacific Coast and parts of the Gulf Coast, some species are found year-round. For example, Anna’s Hummingbirds are common year-round residents in much of California, and Costa’s and Allen’s Hummingbirds are also present throughout the year in southern California.
In contrast, northern regions experience a shorter hummingbird season. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds arrive in northern states and Canadian provinces in late April or early May and depart by late September or early October. Areas in the Mountain West see species like Broad-tailed, Black-chinned, and Calliope Hummingbirds arriving in spring as flowers bloom. Arrivals occur near the Mexican border in early March and extend to the northern Rockies by early to mid-May.
What Drives Hummingbird Movement
Several environmental and biological factors influence when hummingbirds begin their annual movements. Changing daylight hours, known as photoperiod, are a primary trigger for their migratory instincts. As days shorten in late summer and fall, this cues hummingbirds to prepare for their southward journey. Similarly, increasing daylight in late winter signals northward migration.
Temperature shifts also play a role, though hummingbirds are tolerant of cooler weather as long as food is available. A decline in nectar-producing flowers and insects, their main food sources, is another significant driver. As these resources dwindle in northern breeding grounds, hummingbirds seek more abundant food supplies in warmer climates. These combined cues, rather than just cold weather, activate their migration.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Garden
Creating a welcoming environment can encourage hummingbirds to visit your garden during their active months. Planting native, nectar-rich flowers is an effective strategy, as hummingbirds prefer tubular-shaped blooms, especially in shades of red, orange, and pink. Examples include:
Bee balm
Salvia
Columbine
Honeysuckle
Penstemon
These can provide a continuous food source if planted with varied blooming periods.
Supplementing natural nectar with feeders is also beneficial, particularly during migration periods. A solution of one part white sugar to four parts water is recommended, without added dyes or artificial sweeteners. Feeders should be placed in visible locations, ideally 4 to 6 feet above ground and near cover like trees or shrubs for safety. Providing a fresh water source, such as a mister or a shallow dripper, can also attract hummingbirds for bathing and preening, as they do not use traditional deep bird baths.