The annual arrival of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird marks the beginning of spring for many Michigan residents. These tiny migrants undertake an impressive journey from Central America and Mexico, relying on high-energy food sources upon their return. Placing a nectar feeder at the correct time ensures these exhausted birds have the fuel necessary to survive early spring temperature fluctuations and establish their territory. Supplying this nourishment early supports the first individuals arriving after their long, demanding flight.
Optimal Spring Timing for Feeders in Michigan
The correct timing for hanging a feeder in Michigan is determined by the expected arrival of the first scouting males. These birds typically reach the southern Lower Peninsula in mid-to-late April, progressing north into the Upper Peninsula toward mid-to-late May. To provide a resource for the earliest arrivals, hang feeders by the beginning of the third week of April across the state. This proactive approach ensures the feeder is available ten to fourteen days before the earliest expected sighting in your region.
Early spring weather is highly unpredictable, and temperature fluctuations often delay the blooming of native nectar-producing flowers. During this window, a feeder becomes a primary and reliable source of sustenance for the first wave of migrating hummingbirds. Providing this readily available sugar solution encourages the birds to stay and breed in your area. The males, who arrive first to claim territory, benefit most from this early source before females arrive shortly after.
Safe Nectar Preparation and Feeder Maintenance
The solution provided in the feeder must closely mimic natural flower nectar to be both attractive and safe for the birds. A proper mixture consists of one part refined white granulated sugar dissolved into four parts water. This 1:4 ratio provides a sucrose concentration easily metabolized by the hummingbirds’ digestive systems.
It is important to avoid using anything other than plain white sugar and water, as substitutes can be harmful. Brown sugar and honey contain iron, which hummingbirds have a low tolerance for. Honey can also harbor mold spores that cause fatal fungal infections. Furthermore, artificial colorants, particularly red dyes, are unnecessary and potentially harmful, as they provide no nutritional value. The red color on the feeder itself is sufficient to attract the birds, since natural nectar is clear.
Maintaining strict hygiene is equally important to prevent the growth of dangerous molds and fermentation. Nectar should be replaced every two to three days, even if it appears clear, and more frequently during high heat. The feeder should be thoroughly cleaned with hot water and a brush each time the solution is changed to scrub away sticky residue or forming mold. Placing the feeder in a shaded area, near protective cover like trees or shrubs, helps slow fermentation while providing the birds with security.
Knowing When to Take Feeders Down
The feeding season naturally concludes when the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their return migration south. Most individuals in Michigan depart between late August and mid-September, with the last birds typically seen by early October. Keeping a feeder operational will not prevent the birds from leaving, as their migration is triggered by instinct and decreasing daylight hours, not by the availability of food.
To ensure late stragglers or passing migrants have access to fuel for their journey, the feeder should remain up for two full weeks after the last hummingbird sighting. This practice provides a needed energy source for individuals that may have started their migration later or are passing through from farther north. Once this two-week period has passed without a sighting, you can safely clean and store the feeder for the winter.