Hummingbirds, with their rapid wingbeats and iridescent plumage, are a captivating sight. These tiny birds are known for their impressive migratory journeys, traveling thousands of miles between their breeding and wintering grounds. Their seasonal appearance transforms backyards and gardens, making them a welcome part of the natural landscape. Understanding their patterns helps enthusiasts appreciate and support these remarkable avian visitors.
Hummingbird Return to Ohio
Hummingbirds begin their return migration to Ohio in the spring. The ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most common species observed in the state, and it is the only one that breeds east of the Mississippi River. Males usually arrive first, often in early April to establish feeding territories. The southern half of Ohio sees the first arrivals between April 1 and April 15, with the northern half experiencing their return from April 15 to April 30. Females follow a few weeks later.
Influences on Arrival Time
Hummingbird arrival in Ohio is influenced by several environmental factors. Increasing daylight hours serve as a primary cue, signaling their northward migration. Rising temperatures also play a role, as warmer weather supports the emergence of their insect prey and the blooming of nectar-producing flowers. Early spring nectar sources, though sometimes scarce, are important for these energy-demanding birds. Year-to-year weather fluctuations can cause slight shifts in these arrival windows.
Welcoming Returning Hummingbirds
To attract and support hummingbirds, several measures can be taken. Setting up hummingbird feeders is an effective way to provide a consistent food source, especially in early spring when natural nectar may be limited. A simple nectar solution can be made by mixing one part refined white sugar with four parts water, boiled to dissolve the sugar and sterilize the solution. It is important to avoid using red dyes, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful to the birds.
Feeders require regular cleaning to prevent mold and bacteria. In hot weather, feeders should be emptied and cleaned daily or every other day, while in cooler weather, cleaning twice per week or every three days may suffice. Thorough cleaning involves disassembling the feeder and washing all parts with hot water, or a weak vinegar solution, ensuring no soap residue remains. Additionally, planting nectar-rich flowers native to Ohio can provide natural food sources throughout the season. Examples include trumpet vine, trumpet honeysuckle, cardinal flower, bee balm, and columbine, which offer the tubular shapes hummingbirds prefer.
Their Autumn Departure
Hummingbirds begin their southward migration from Ohio in the fall. This departure occurs between late August and mid-October. Males usually depart first, followed by females and younger birds a week or two later. The primary cues triggering their journey are decreasing daylight hours and cooling temperatures. These environmental signals prompt a hormonal change, encouraging the birds to increase their food intake to build fat reserves necessary for their long flight back to their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.