Hummingbirds, with their iridescent plumage and rapid wingbeats, are a welcome sight in the gardens and natural areas of Western New York during the warmer months. These tiny birds, primarily the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, are remarkable for their aerial agility and their profound migratory instincts. Their presence enriches the region’s biodiversity, but as seasons change, these energetic visitors embark on an impressive journey.
Typical Departure Schedule
Hummingbirds typically begin their departure from Western New York as late summer transitions into early fall. The primary species observed in this region, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, follows a predictable migratory pattern. Individual birds may start their southward journey at slightly different times, but the bulk of the population begins to leave around late August.
The peak departure period for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds from Western New York generally occurs throughout September. Males often lead this migration, departing earlier than females and juveniles, who follow a week or two later. Some individuals might linger into early October, particularly if weather conditions remain mild.
Environmental Cues for Migration
The decision for hummingbirds to begin their arduous migration is not arbitrary but is primarily triggered by specific environmental signals. One of the most significant cues is the decreasing length of daylight hours, also known as photoperiod. As days grow shorter in late summer, this change signals the approaching colder months and reduced food availability.
Cooler temperatures also play a role, reinforcing the message that winter is on its way. These external environmental signals work in conjunction with the birds’ internal biological clocks. This internal rhythm, refined over generations, helps them anticipate and prepare for their long-distance travel.
These combined cues prompt a series of physiological changes within the hummingbirds. They instinctively begin to increase their food intake, a behavior known as hyperphagia, accumulating the necessary fat reserves that will fuel their extensive journey. This preparatory phase is essential for their survival during migration.
The Southern Journey
After departing Western New York, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds undertake an extraordinary journey to their wintering grounds. Their primary destinations are typically in Mexico and Central America, extending as far south as Panama. This remarkable migration spans thousands of miles, with many individuals completing a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico.
This particular leg of the journey, approximately 500 miles, can take 18 to 22 hours of continuous flight. To prepare for such a demanding flight, hummingbirds significantly increase their body weight, often by 25% to 40%, by building up fat reserves. These accumulated fat stores serve as the primary energy source for their long-distance travel.
Hummingbirds migrate alone, relying on their innate navigational skills rather than traveling in flocks. Their ability to undertake such a precise and energy-intensive migration highlights the remarkable adaptations of these tiny, resilient birds.