Hummingbirds are a favorite backyard visitor for many people across the United States. These tiny, colorful birds darting from flower to flower bring excitement and wonder. As hummingbird migration patterns shift and change, birders in many areas find themselves wondering if hummingbirds are around earlier or later in the year than expected.
For those in Kansas, the question often arises: are hummingbirds in Kansas now? The answer depends on what time of year it is. Let’s take a closer look at when and where hummingbirds may be spotted in the Sunflower State.
Spring Migration in Kansas
In spring, hummingbirds start to return to Kansas in early April. The very first arrivals are often males seeking out the best breeding territories. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most common species seen in Kansas, although other species like Rufous and Calliope Hummingbirds may pass through during migration as well.
By mid-April, more Ruby-throats have returned and some females may also be seen investigating nesting spots. Flowers like columbine, bee balm, and trumpet vines support these early arrivals. As more flowers bloom in May, hummingbirds become more abundant and easier to spot in backyards, parks, and natural areas.
Here is a table showing the timing of spring hummingbird migration in Kansas:
| Timeframe | Migration Activity |
|---|---|
| Early April | First arrivals; mainly males |
| Mid April | More males, some females arrive |
| May | Hummingbirds increasing abundant and widespread |
So if you are asking “are hummingbirds in Kansas now” in the spring, the answer is typically yes by April in most parts of the state. The exception would be during a very late spring when migration is delayed.
Summer Range in Kansas
During the summer months, hummingbirds take up breeding residence in Kansas. They nest throughout the state wherever flower-rich habitat provides adequate food resources.
In backyards, providing nectar feeders and flowering plants will help attract hummingbirds. Good choices include tubular red flowers like bee balm, cardinal flower, and trumpet vine. Trees and shrubs like butterfly bush and weigela are also excellent hummingbird plants.
Here are some tips to make your backyard more attractive to hummingbirds in summer:
- Place feeders in sheltered spots
- Use a nectar mix of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water
- Change nectar every 2-3 days
- Provide insect-attracting flowers
- Use red feeders and flower colors
With the right habitat, you are almost guaranteed to have hummingbirds in your yard throughout the summer in Kansas. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird will nest and raise young before preparing for fall migration.
Notable Hummingbird Gatherings
One of the best places to see large numbers of hummingbirds in Kansas is the Galisteo Basin south of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Though not in Kansas, this site is close enough for a weekend birding trip. The high desert habitat supports an unusually dense population of breeding Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that cluster around backyard feeders by the hundreds in late summer.
Fall Migration Departure
Most Ruby-throated Hummingbirds depart Kansas by late September as cold fronts sweep down from Canada and insect numbers decline. Each year a few stragglers may linger into early October, but most have left the state by then.
As hummingbirds prepare to migrate south, they enter a period of hyperphagia where they consume extra food to store fat for the long journey. Providing a continual nectar supply in the fall supports this pre-migratory fattening process.
Here is a table showing the timing of fall hummingbird migration in Kansas:
| Timeframe | Migration Activity |
|---|---|
| August – mid September | Fat storage and pre-migratory restlessness |
| Mid/late September | Most hummingbirds gone from Kansas |
| Early October | A few stragglers may remain |
During August and September, enjoy the last weeks with hummingbirds before cold weather arrives. Their departure is a reminder that winter will soon be on its way to Kansas.
Overwintering Hummingbirds
While most Ruby-throated Hummingbirds leave Kansas before winter, a few exceptional birds may attempt to overwinter in the state each year. These are typically adult males who stake out a protected backyard feeder and defy their innate migratory urge.
Attempting to overwinter in Kansas is extremely risky for hummingbirds. Extended freezing temperatures and an insect food source make survival a challenge. A homeowner who notices a hummingbird at their feeder past late fall should try to provide for its needs as best they can with a heated nectar supply.
With climate change, overwintering hummingbirds may become more regular in Kansas. The wintering birds located so far have been found mainly in the eastern and southeastern parts of the state where temperatures are a bit milder.
Here are some signs that a hummingbird may be attempting to overwinter in your yard:
- Regularly using a feeder into late fall/early winter
- defending a feeder from other hummers
- Feathers look fresh, not worn down
If you suspect you have an overwintering hummingbird, be sure to maintain fresh nectar daily and capture photos to document this unusual event.
Rare Visitors
While Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the expected species in Kansas, several other hummingbird species show up rarely each year as they get off course during migration. Here are some of the vagrant hummingbirds that have been documented in Kansas:
Rufous Hummingbird
This western species is a famous wanderer, with individuals often reaching Midwest states. Rufous Hummingbirds are feisty and defend feeders aggressively.
Calliope Hummingbird
Another western hummingbird, the Calliope is North America’s smallest species. They appear very small and delicate, with a streaked throat.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
A high mountain species of the Rockies, Broad-taileds occasionally follow river valleys east during migration. They are large and long-winged.
Buff-bellied Hummingbird
Normally only found in south Texas and Mexico, a few Buff-bellied Hummingbirds stray north to Kansas on rare occasions, even as far as Wisconsin.
An unusual visiting hummingbird tends to draw a lot of attention from birders. There are now quick-response networks to alert others about rare bird sightings. If you think you have an out-of-place hummingbird, taking photos and contacting experts can help document rare records.
Conclusion
So in summary, are hummingbirds in Kansas now? Here are the key points:
- Arrive in April, most leave by late September/early October
- Ruby-throated is most common species
- A few may overwinter, mainly adult males
- Rare western species occasionally appear
- Providing feeders and flowers helps attract them
Taking time to observe and learn about hummingbird migration cycles will allow you to answer “are hummingbirds in Kansas now?” anytime of year. Their arrival and departure track the shifting of the seasons and changing ecology of the state.
