Hummingbirds, with their shimmering plumage and remarkable aerial agility, captivate observers across Kentucky each year. Their annual return is a highly anticipated event, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the warmth of summer.
Typical Arrival Dates
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, the only common species that breeds in Kentucky, arrive in mid-April. Sightings have been recorded as early as late March. Males often lead this northward migration, appearing first to establish territories from late March to early April. Females follow around mid-April to choose mates and begin nesting.
Arrival dates vary by location within Kentucky, with southern regions welcoming birds earlier than northern parts. Year-to-year weather patterns also influence timing. The period from late March through mid-April marks their consistent return.
Factors Guiding Their Journey
The northward migration of hummingbirds is guided by biological and environmental cues. Increasing daylight hours, known as photoperiod, trigger the onset of spring and their journey from wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico. Rising temperatures along their migratory path also ensure favorable conditions for their flight.
As they migrate, hummingbirds rely on food resources, primarily nectar from blooming flowers and small insects. They time their movements to coincide with the blossoming of nectar-producing plants along their route, providing necessary energy. Before migration, they accumulate significant fat reserves, sometimes doubling their body weight, to fuel their travels.
Welcoming Their Return
Preparing for the return of hummingbirds involves setting up resources to support these travelers. Placing hummingbird feeders one to two weeks before their expected arrival, around mid-March or early April, ensures an immediate food source. After their long migration, these birds are often hungry and fatigued, making accessible nectar a valuable resource.
A suitable sugar-water solution for feeders consists of four parts water to one part refined white sugar, thoroughly dissolved. Avoid using honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners. Red dye is unnecessary as feeders provide enough visual attraction. Planting nectar-rich flowers like bee balm, cardinal flower, trumpet creeper, columbine, and sage provides natural food sources.
Their Autumn Departure
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their southbound migration from Kentucky as seasons transition to fall. Departure commences in late August and continues into early September. Most birds leave the state by mid-September.
Decreasing daylight hours and cooler temperatures are primary cues for their autumnal journey. These environmental changes also reduce the availability of essential food sources, such as nectar and insects. While many depart by mid-September, some hummingbirds, particularly juveniles, may linger in Kentucky until early November or even mid-December before continuing south.