Are hummingbirds rare in Ohio?

Hummingbirds are a fairly common sight in Ohio, though they are not present year-round. Ohio is on the northern edge of where hummingbirds regularly breed and reside during summer. Of the 17 species of hummingbirds found in the United States, 6 species have been documented in Ohio. While hummingbirds can be spotted statewide, they tend to be more abundant in southern and eastern Ohio than in the northwest.

Which hummingbird species can be found in Ohio?

The most common hummingbird species spotted in Ohio are:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird – This is the only species that breeds in Ohio. Ruby-throats arrive in the state in early May and most migrate south by late September/early October.
• Rufous Hummingbird – Most sightings of this western species occur during fall migration in August through October.
• Calliope Hummingbird – A rare fall migrant in Ohio that occasionally stays through winter.
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird – A rare west coast species sometimes found in fall/winter.
• Anna’s Hummingbird – An uncommon winter visitor between November and March.
• Black-chinned Hummingbird – A rare migrant, mostly reported in autumn.

Of these, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most widespread and commonly observed, though Rufous Hummingbirds are reported annually as well. The others are more irregular in occurrence.

Are hummingbirds declining in Ohio?

There is no evidence that hummingbird numbers are declining significantly in Ohio. If anything, some species like the Ruby-throated may be increasing in the state as backyard feeding has become more popular. That said, maintaining adequate habitat is still important for hummingbirds that breed in Ohio. The early loss of flowers and nectar plants they depend on could negatively impact their breeding success.

What is the population status of hummingbirds in Ohio?

No systematic surveys of hummingbird populations have been done for the state. However, based on citizen science reports submitted to eBird and other databases, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are routinely detected every summer across Ohio. They can be locally common in areas with sufficient food sources and habitat. Rufous Hummingbirds are reported every fall, though in smaller numbers than Ruby-throats. The other migrant species are considered rare, with just a handful of records annually.

While no abundance estimates exist, the widespread observations indicate hummingbird populations that use Ohio are stable currently. Sufficient breeding habitat and plentiful backyard feeders support summering Ruby-throats. And migrant species pass through the state in consistent numbers each year.

Estimated number of hummingbird species reported per year in Ohio

What factors affect hummingbird abundance in Ohio?

Several key factors influence hummingbird numbers and distribution in Ohio:

• Habitat availability – Hummingbirds are dependent on sources of nectar for food. Habitats that provide abundant flowers, shrubs, and trees that bloom spring through fall are critical.
• Backyard feeders – Supplemental nectar from feeders can support higher densities of hummingbirds, especially Ruby-throats in summer.
• Development – Loss of natural habitat due to urbanization may reduce nesting sites and food sources for hummingbirds.
• Pesticide use – Pesticides can reduce insect populations that hummingbirds rely on for protein.
• Climate – Warmer temperatures may allow northward expansion of species like Anna’s Hummingbird.

Maintaining diverse plantings, limiting pesticide use, and providing supplemental feeders in yards and parks can offset some negative impacts of development and climate change.

When are hummingbirds present in Ohio?

The timing of hummingbird presence in Ohio depends on the species:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird – Summer resident from May through September with peak numbers in July.
• Rufous Hummingbird – Fall migrant from August to early November, rare in winter.
• Calliope Hummingbird – Pass through during fall migration, occasionally overwinter.
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird – Rare in fall and winter from October to February.
• Anna’s Hummingbird – Winter visitor from November to March.
• Black-chinned Hummingbird – Mostly a fall migrant in August and September.

Ruby-throats have the longest seasonal presence as they breed in Ohio. The other species are transitory as they pass through on their migrations to and from their core breeding range out west.

Where are hummingbirds most abundant in Ohio?

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds can be found statewide and are most widespread. They occur in open semi-rural areas with meadows, woodland edges, parks, and backyards where there are abundant flowers and feeders.

Reports indicate the highest densities of Ruby-throats are in these general regions:

• Southeast – especially along the Ohio River Valley
• Southcentral – including metro areas like Columbus and Cincinnati
• Northeast – including Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown metro areas

Rufous and other western species are reported more sporadically statewide but probably pass through in higher numbers along the Lake Erie shoreline regions.

How can you attract hummingbirds in Ohio?

To bring hummingbirds to your yard in Ohio, follow these tips:

• Set up nectar feeders in early spring before hummingbirds arrive.
• Use a premixed nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring.
• Change nectar every 2-3 days to prevent fermentation and spoilage.
• Plant a variety of native flowers, shrubs, and trees that bloom spring to fall such as bee balm, cardinal flower, trumpet vine, weigela, butterfly bush, and trumpet honeysuckle.
• Avoid or limit pesticide use which reduces insects hummingbirds feed on.
• Place feeders and plantings where hummingbirds can access them safely, such as away from predators.
• Use red feeders or place red ribbons/tape near feeders to attract hummingbirds.

With a little planning, you can create an appealing oasis with plentiful nectar and small insects to attract these energetic little birds.

Some great nectar plants for hummingbirds in Ohio:

Conclusion

In summary, hummingbirds are fairly widespread and common summer residents in Ohio, primarily Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Their numbers appear stable currently, though maintaining natural habitat and providing artificial feeders are important conservation measures. With adequate food sources and nesting sites, Ohioans can continue enjoying these tiny, flying jewels for years to come.