Hummingbirds are small, agile birds known for their rapid wing beats, hovering, vibrant colors, and energetic feeding habits. Many people in Illinois become curious about when these migratory birds grace local landscapes. Their seasonal presence in Illinois involves thousands of miles of travel between breeding and wintering habitats.
Spring Arrival
The primary hummingbird species in Illinois is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, arriving in spring. Northward migration responds to increasing daylight and warming temperatures, signaling available nectar and insects. These tiny birds often cross the Gulf of Mexico before continuing north.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds appear in southern Illinois in late April, with arrivals extending into central and northern parts of the state through early to mid-May. Exact timing varies slightly each year, influenced by weather and spring bloom. Early arrivals are observed where food sources like early-blooming flowers or well-maintained feeders are available.
Autumn Departure
As breeding season concludes and daylight shortens, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds prepare for southward migration from Illinois. This journey is triggered by decreasing daylight and cooler temperatures, signaling winter’s approach.
They build fat reserves by consuming nectar and insects to fuel their long flight to wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.
Peak departure for hummingbirds in Illinois occurs from late August through September. While most leave by September’s end, a few stragglers may be observed into early October, especially in southern Illinois.
Ensuring late-season food sources, such as late-blooming native plants and clean feeders, supports these birds as they complete migration preparations.
Welcoming Hummingbirds to Your Yard
Attracting hummingbirds to a yard in Illinois involves providing reliable food sources and suitable habitat. Nectar feeders filled with a sugar water solution are effective. The recommended mixture is four parts water to one part granulated white sugar, mimicking flower nectar.
Feeder maintenance is important for bird health; clean and refill feeders every two to three days, or more frequently in hot weather, to prevent spoilage and mold. Placing feeders in visible, somewhat sheltered locations helps hummingbirds feel secure. Supplementing feeders with native nectar plants is also beneficial. Examples of suitable native plants for Illinois include bee balm (Monarda spp.), cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), and columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), which provide natural food sources and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.