Hummingbirds are captivating birds, known for their rapid wingbeats and shimmering plumage. Alabama is an important location for these tiny avians, especially during their migratory journeys. The state hosts various hummingbird species, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird being the most commonly observed.
Peak Migration Periods
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird begins its northward migration to Alabama in spring, with males often arriving first. Early arrivals are observed in mid-March, with most appearing by early April. Their presence becomes widespread across the state during the breeding season, extending through summer.
As summer progresses into fall, southbound migration commences. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their departure from Alabama in late July, with peak migration occurring throughout August and September. Most birds have left the state by early October, continuing their journey to warmer wintering grounds. The precise timing of these movements can be influenced by environmental factors like regional weather patterns and nectar availability.
Year-Round and Winter Presence
While the Ruby-throated Hummingbird dominates migration, Alabama has become a recognized wintering ground for several western hummingbird species. Rufous, Black-chinned, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds are regularly documented spending winter in the state. These birds arrive in late fall and remain through early spring, sometimes until March.
The observation of these western species wintering in Alabama is attributed to factors. These include shifts in climate patterns and increased availability of supplemental food sources, like backyard feeders, providing reliable sustenance during colder periods. This phenomenon highlights the evolving understanding of hummingbird distribution and the importance of continuous monitoring.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Providing suitable food sources is an effective strategy for observing hummingbirds. Nectar feeders, filled with a solution of four parts water to one part granulated sugar, attract these birds. This solution should be changed and the feeder cleaned every few days to prevent spoilage. Placing feeders out by early March welcomes early spring arrivals, and keeping them up through late fall or into winter supports late migrants and wintering species.
Supplementing feeders with native flowering plants also creates an inviting habitat. Hummingbirds favor plants that produce abundant nectar, such as:
Trumpet vine
Cardinal flower
Bee balm
Various salvias
Providing a water source, like a shallow bird bath with moving water, and scattered trees or shrubs for perching and shelter can further encourage hummingbirds to frequent a yard.
References
https://www.alabamawildlife.org/hummingbirds-in-alabama-what-you-need-to-know/
https://www.outdooralabama.com/articles/hummingbirds-alabama
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Ruby-throated_Hummingbird/maps-blocks/migration
https://www.audubon.org/news/how-make-hummingbird-nectar
https://www.alabamaforeverwild.com/blog/attracting-hummingbirds-your-yard