Hummingbirds, with their iridescent plumage and rapid wingbeats, are captivating visitors to Michigan gardens throughout the warmer months. These tiny birds, predominantly the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, bring a unique vibrancy to the landscape. While their presence is a highlight of spring and summer, their stay in Michigan is temporary, as they prepare for an annual journey to warmer climates as the seasons change. Understanding their patterns of departure helps appreciate their life cycle.
Typical Departure Times from Michigan
Hummingbirds typically begin their southward migration from Michigan in late August, with the main departure period extending through early September. This process is gradual. Male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds generally initiate their journey first, often in August or the first week of September. Females and the young birds they have raised usually follow about two weeks later. By mid-September, most hummingbirds have already left the state, continuing their journey south. However, it is not uncommon to observe some stragglers into late September, and occasionally even into mid-October.
Factors Driving Hummingbird Migration
The primary signals that prompt hummingbirds to begin their migration are internal, driven by hormonal changes triggered by the decreasing length of daylight hours, known as photoperiod. This biological cue is a more significant factor than immediate temperature drops. Along with changes in daylight, the diminishing availability of food sources like nectar from flowers and small insects also influences their departure. Before embarking on their journey, hummingbirds will consume large quantities of nectar and insects to build up fat reserves, sometimes doubling their body weight. These fat stores provide the energy needed to fuel their migratory flight.
Their Southern Destinations
Hummingbirds undertake a journey to their wintering grounds in southern Mexico and Central America. These destinations include countries such as Panama, Costa Rica, and Belize, where warmer climates and abundant food sources prevail throughout the cooler months. Their journey includes a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of approximately 500 miles. This crossing can take an estimated 18 to 24 hours, relying on the fat reserves they accumulated before departure.
Assisting Hummingbirds Before They Leave
Support hummingbirds as they prepare for migration. Provide nectar feeders, as they offer an energy source for birds fueling up for their journey. Keep feeders clean and filled for approximately two weeks after the last hummingbird sighting in your area.
A simple sugar-water solution, made with one part granulated sugar to four parts water, is used; red dye should not be added. Regular cleaning of feeders, every day or two, prevents the growth of mold and keeps the nectar fresh. Planting late-blooming, tubular flowers such as trumpet vine, bee balm, petunias, and honeysuckle also provide natural nectar sources during this period. These efforts help ensure hummingbirds have energy for their migration.