The return of hummingbirds to Connecticut each spring brings fascination and delight, as these tiny, iridescent birds bring vibrant energy. Their arrival signifies warming weather and blossoming flowers. Many eagerly anticipate their distinctive hum and brilliant plumage.
Pinpointing Their Arrival
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin arriving in Connecticut from mid-April through early May. Male hummingbirds lead this migratory journey, appearing first to establish territories. Females follow one to two weeks later. By mid-May, most hummingbirds for breeding will have arrived.
The exact timing of their appearance varies by location, with southern areas often seeing the first arrivals. While many birds will settle in Connecticut for the breeding season, some continue their journey further north into Canada.
Factors Shaping Their Journey
Several factors influence the timing of hummingbird migration each year. Environmental conditions like weather patterns, including temperature and the onset of spring warmth, play a role. Warmer springs can lead to earlier arrivals, while colder or erratic weather may delay their journey.
The availability of food sources, such as early blooming flowers, also guides their migration. Hummingbirds are dependent on nectar, so their movements correlate with blooming cycles. Additionally, the birds’ internal biological clocks, cued by changes in daylight, signal their migration.
Welcoming Your Tiny Visitors
Preparing for the arrival of hummingbirds can enhance your chances of attracting them. A common and effective way to provide a food source is by setting up feeders filled with a simple sugar-water solution. This can be made by mixing one part white granulated sugar with four parts water until the sugar dissolves. There is no need to add red dye, as it can be harmful to the birds.
Feeders should be cleaned thoroughly every other day to prevent mold growth, and any extra solution can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Placing feeders in quiet areas of your yard, especially near nectar-rich plants, can be beneficial. Beyond feeders, planting native tubular flowers like Eastern Red Columbine, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Cardinal Flower, and Bee Balm can provide natural nectar sources throughout the season.
The Ruby-Throat’s Connecticut Story
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird ( Archilochus colubris) is the only hummingbird species that regularly breeds in eastern North America, including Connecticut. These remarkable birds spend their winters in southern Mexico, Central America, or Panama, undertaking an extensive migration journey each spring.
Upon arriving in Connecticut, they establish territories for breeding, with males typically arriving before females. They will remain in the state throughout the summer months, raising their young. As temperatures begin to drop and daylight shortens, usually in late August through September, these hummingbirds embark on their return migration south, with most departing by early October.