Hummingbirds are some of the most beloved and anticipated birds that visit Connecticut each spring. Their return from their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico is a welcome sign that warmer weather is on the way. But when exactly do these tiny dynamos make their way back to Connecticut? The answer depends on a few key factors.
In short, the time that hummingbirds arrive in Connecticut can vary from year to year depending on weather conditions along their migration route. However, they typically start showing up in small numbers by early-to-mid April. Numbers gradually increase through May and early June as more birds arrive. Let’s take a closer look at what impacts the timing of hummingbirds’ spring migration and arrival in Connecticut.
What Influences When Hummingbirds Arrive in Connecticut?
Day Length
Like most migratory birds, hummingbirds rely on increasing day length as their cue to begin migrating northward in the spring. As days lengthen at their wintering grounds, hormonal changes prompt them to put on extra fat reserves to fuel their long journey. The specific timing can vary by species, but most hummingbirds begin leaving their winter homes by late February or March.
However, day length alone does not guarantee that early spring conditions will be suitable along their route. Hummingbirds also closely monitor environmental factors like food availability and weather as they migrate.
Food Availability
An abundance of flower nectar along the migration path allows hummingbirds to easily refuel. Early springs with warmer temperatures may boost flower production or insect hatches along the way, supporting larger numbers of earlier arriving birds. But if flower blooms are delayed by cooler weather, hummingbirds may pause their migration and wait for better foraging conditions.
Weather Conditions
Hummingbirds are capable of enduring some cold weather. However, freezing temperatures, storms, precipitation, and strong headwinds along their migration route can slow their progress northward or force them to stop over and wait for better conditions. An unusually cold, wet spring can delay their arrival in Connecticut by weeks compared to a warmer, drier spring.
Geographic Location
Because hummingbirds generally migrate northward up the middle of North America before fanning out east or west, those that are headed to Connecticut and other eastern states have farther to travel. They also must cross major geographical barriers like the Gulf of Mexico, which can be impacted by weather and atmospheric conditions.
Western hummingbird species following the Pacific Flyway often arrive in their breeding grounds well before their eastern relatives. So their earlier return is not necessarily an indicator of when to expect hummingbirds in Connecticut.
When Do the First Hummingbirds Arrive in Connecticut?
Now that we’ve reviewed the major factors that influence migration timing, when can Connecticut residents realistically expect to see the first hummingbird visitors?
Early Arrivals
In mild springs, the very first vagrant individuals may show up by the first week of April, though sightings this early are uncommon. These are likely hardy males arriving ahead of females and juvenile birds. But even in early springs, numbers very minimal this early.
Mid-April Arrivals
Mid-April brings more consistent first sightings as early migrating Ruby-throated Hummingbirds arrive in Connecticut. The second or third week of April is a more typical timeframe for the first reports of visiting male Ruby-throats. Early April cold snaps can delay their arrival until late April.
Late April/Early May Peak
The last week of April through the first week of May is peak time for the arrival of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Numbers rapidly increase as males, females, and young from earlier broods reach the state. By early May, Ruby-throats are consistently reported from all parts of Connecticut.
Other less common species like Rufous Hummingbirds begin arriving in Connecticut in late April and early May as well. However, these sightings are fewer and far between compared to the abundant Ruby-throats.
When Do Hummingbird Numbers Peak in Connecticut?
While the first arrivals in April generate excitement, Connecticut’s hummingbird populations continue to build toward their peak in May and early June. Here’s what to expect during these months:
Mid-May Numbers Increasing
Although Ruby-throats are widespread by early May, sightings may still be somewhat sporadic as birds move through the state. But by mid-May, reports become widespread and consistent as migrating waves bring new birds into the area. Flowers are blooming, insects are abundant, and early nesting is underway.
Late May Population Peaks
Late May brings peak ruby-throated hummingbird diversity and numbers in Connecticut as spring migration winds down. Flowers are still abundant, and temporary use of feeders is high as the birds fuel up for breeding. Males are active and vocal as they advertise their territories.
Early June Nesting Season in Full Swing
June is peak nesting season in Connecticut as female ruby-throats incubate eggs and care for hatchlings. Food demands are high, keeping birds active at flowers and feeders. The first fledglings may leave nests by late June, boosting overall numbers as young birds join the adult population. Sightings remain consistently high.
How Long Do Hummingbirds Stay in Connecticut?
Connecticut’s hummingbird population remains high from May through August before slowly declining in September and October as fall migration gets underway. Here’s what to expect:
Summer Stability from June to August
Once nesting is in full swing by early summer, Connecticut’s hummingbird numbers remain relatively stable through August. Adults continue caring for multiple broods, and there is a constant supply of freshly fledged young birds joining the population. Flowers and insects are still readily available as energy sources.
Early Fall Migrations in September
Some adult male ruby-throats may start leaving Connecticut by late August, but a more noticeable decline in numbers begins in September as migrations ramp up. However, new hatchlings continue to supplement the population through summer, maintaining relatively high numbers through early fall.
October Departures
October brings a rapid decline in Connecticut’s hummingbird population as most birds have departed by month’s end. A few stragglers may linger into early November, especially during unseasonably warm autumns. But food availability and cold temperatures eventually force even the latest birds to continue migrating south.
Do Hummingbird Numbers and Behavior Vary by Season?
Hummingbird activity and behaviors change significantly from spring through fall as breeding and migration cycles dictate their focus.
Spring
In spring, male hummingbirds are very territorial. They vocalize with buzzing display dives and chase other males from flowers, feeders, and potential nest sites. Females are busy with nesting activities. Both sexes are very active at flowers and feeders to fuel up for breeding.
Summer
In summer, males are less aggressive as their focus turns to supporting nesting females and feeding the young. Females are very preoccupied incubating eggs and caring for multiple broods. Feeder visits may decrease but flower visits remain frequent.
Fall
In fall, territorial behavior resumes briefly as males migrate earlier and try to fuel up. Females are busy feeding their final broods of the season. Migrating birds frequent feeders but may also feed more heavily on flowers. Activity increases as migration gets underway.
Winter
In winter, very few hummingbirds remain in Connecticut. An occasional Rufous or Calliope hummingbird may attempt to overwinter, especially if feeders are available. But the vast majority migrate south by October.
Key Points in Summary
– Hummingbirds start arriving in Connecticut in small numbers by mid-April, with sightings increasing through late April and early May as spring migration peaks.
– Arrival varies annually depending on weather conditions along their migratory routes that may accelerate or delay migration.
– Numbers continue to build through May and early June as nesting gets underway, peaking by late May.
– Most hummingbirds leave Connecticut by late October, with just a few rare reports of stray individuals attempting to overwinter.
– Males and females use feeders and flowers heavily in spring and fall to fuel up for migration and breeding. Summer feeder use declines but flower visits remain frequent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common hummingbird species in Connecticut?
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most widespread and commonly observed hummingbird species seen in Connecticut.
What time of year do hummingbirds migrate through Connecticut?
Most hummingbirds migrate through Connecticut in spring from April through early June, and again in fall between August and October.
How can I attract hummingbirds to my yard in Connecticut?
Providing nectar feeders, planting native flowers, and including shrubs and small trees that hummingbirds use for nesting and perching will help attract them.
What hummingbird species migrate through Connecticut besides Ruby-throated?
Less common species like Rufous Hummingbirds, Allen’s Hummingbirds, Calliope Hummingbirds, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds occasionally pass through or get reported in Connecticut, mainly during spring and fall migration periods.
How long do hummingbirds stay in Connecticut each year?
Most hummingbirds reside in Connecticut from April/May through August/September – a period of 4-5 months on average. Very few winter in the state.
Conclusion
The return of hummingbirds to Connecticut each spring is an exciting event for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. Understanding their migration patterns and annual cycle helps us to provide needed habitat and food sources for these captivating birds. With a little preparation, you can welcome hummingbirds back to your own yard or garden this season! Taking steps like putting out feeders, planting nectar-rich flowers, and providing small trees and shrubs for shelter are sure to attract these flying jewels.
| Month | Hummingbird Activity in Connecticut |
|---|---|
| January-March | No hummingbirds present – overwintering in Central America and Mexico |
| Mid-April | First early arrivals show up, mainly Ruby-throated males |
| Late April | Increasing reports of arriving Ruby-throats |
| Early May | Peak spring migration period, all types arrive |
| Mid-May | Widespread sightings, nesting and breeding underway |
| Late May | Populations peak as migration ends |
| June-August | Stable summer populations with active breeding |
| September | Early fall migration starts, numbers slowly declining |
| October | Major fall migration underway, most birds leave CT |
| November-March | No hummingbirds seen, overwintering grounds |
