Hummingbirds are a cherished sight in Virginia, gracing gardens and natural spaces throughout warmer months. As summer transitions into fall, these tiny, energetic birds begin an impressive annual journey. Their departure marks the start of a long migration south, driven by instincts that ensure survival through colder seasons.
Typical Departure Schedule
The Ruby-throated hummingbird, the most common species in Virginia, begins its southward migration as summer draws to a close. While there is no single fixed date for their departure, these birds typically start leaving in late August. Adult males are generally the first to embark on this journey, with females and juveniles following a few weeks later. By early to mid-September, most Ruby-throated hummingbirds have departed, and the migration is largely complete by mid-November.
Driving Forces Behind Migration
Hummingbird migration from Virginia is primarily triggered by changing environmental cues, not a lack of food or sudden temperature drops. A key factor is decreasing daylight hours, known as photoperiod. This reduction in light signals winter’s approach, prompting hormonal changes that initiate their migratory urge. While food may still be abundant when they begin their journey, the eventual decline of nectar-producing flowers and insects as temperatures cool also contributes to their instinctive need to move south.
Pre-Migration Preparations
Before embarking on their demanding journey, hummingbirds engage in intense feeding, a behavior known as hyperphagia. During this period, they consume large quantities of nectar and small insects to build up fat reserves, which serve as the primary fuel for long-distance flight. A hummingbird may gain 25 to 50% of its body weight, with some individuals even doubling their mass, storing fat throughout their bodies. This stored energy enables them to undertake flights covering hundreds of miles, sometimes even non-stop across large bodies of water.
How to Support Departing Hummingbirds
Supporting departing hummingbirds in Virginia is straightforward and beneficial. Maintain clean hummingbird feeders with a solution of one part white sugar to four parts water. Avoid red dye or honey. Keep feeders up even after most hummingbirds seem to have left, as late-migrating individuals or those passing through may still rely on these supplemental food sources.
Planting late-blooming, nectar-rich flowers in your garden also provides sustenance. Native plants like Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Cardinal Flower, and Bee-balm are attractive to hummingbirds. A continuous supply of natural food sources, alongside clean feeders, helps these birds adequately fuel their migration. Minimize pesticide use in your yard to protect their insect food sources.
Rare Winter Residents
While most Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate south for winter, a few individuals may occasionally linger in Virginia, or other species might appear. Winter sightings of Ruby-throated hummingbirds are rare, often involving old or injured birds. Other hummingbird species, such as the Rufous hummingbird, are increasingly observed in eastern states, including Virginia, during fall and winter months. Less common visitors like Calliope and Black-chinned hummingbirds have been reported. These rare winter residents often depend on available food sources, including backyard feeders, to survive colder temperatures.