Fort Myers is a city located in southwest Florida, along the Caloosahatchee River. It is known for its warm climate, beaches, and wildlife. One of the unique aspects of Fort Myers’ avian fauna is the presence of several species of hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are small, colorful birds that beat their wings rapidly, allowing them to hover in midair as they feed on nectar from flowers. Their small size and dazzling colors make them a favorite among birdwatchers. In this article, we will explore the different species of hummingbirds found in Fort Myers, where they can be observed, and the best times of year to see them.
Common hummingbird species in Fort Myers
There are several species of hummingbirds that frequent the Fort Myers area throughout the year or during seasonal migrations:
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most common and widely distributed hummingbird in eastern North America. In Fort Myers, ruby-throats can be found year-round, though their numbers increase during spring and fall migrations. The adult male has a vibrant ruby red throat, with a mostly metallic green head and back. Females lack the red throat and are greener overall. Ruby-throats are feisty defenders of nectar sources and feeders.
Rufous Hummingbird
The rufous hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is a summer and fall visitor to Fort Myers as it migrates between its breeding grounds in the Pacific Northwest and wintering grounds in Mexico. The adult male is brightly colored with an orange-red throat, green back, and rusty colored sides. Females and juveniles are greener overall. Rufous hummingbirds are common visitors to gardens and feeders when passing through southwest Florida.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The black-chinned hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) is another western species that can be found in Fort Myers during fall and spring migrations. Adult males have a black throat with a thin band of iridescent purple along the bottom, and a white breast. Females lack the black chin and throat. Black-chinneds are attracted to gardens and feeders like other hummingbirds.
Buff-bellied Hummingbird
The buff-bellied hummingbird (Amazilia yucatanensis) breeds primarily in Mexico and the extreme southern Texas. It is an occasional visitor to Fort Myers and other parts of Florida during late fall, winter, and early spring. The male has a brightly colored emerald green back, bright orange bill, buff-colored underside, and an iridescent purple throat. Females are duller overall with a pale throat.
Best places to observe hummingbirds in Fort Myers
Some top locations for viewing hummingbirds in and around Fort Myers include:
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
This Lee County preserve features boardwalks winding through cypress swamps and prairie. Blooming plants like firebush attract hummingbirds alongside butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife. Ruby-throats and rufous hummingbirds are common here during migration.
Lakes Regional Park
Over 180 species of birds have been recorded at this diverse park featuring lakes, oak woodlands, and pine flatwoods habitats. Hummingbird species are drawn to the park’s gardens and natural areas.
Manatee Park
Located along the Orange River, this small park managed by Lee County provides walkways, fishing piers, and gardens. Hummingbird feeders are maintained, attracting ruby-throats year-round. Rufous and black-chinned can appear during migration.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park
This park near downtown Fort Myers consists of wetlands, hardwood hammocks, and pine flatwoods. Both ruby-throated and rufous hummingbirds can be spotted at the park’s gardens and along nature trails.
Private gardens
Home gardens planted with nectar-producing flowers and maintaining feeders commonly attract local and migrating hummingbirds around town.
Best times to see hummingbirds in Fort Myers
While at least one species – the ruby-throat – can be present year-round, certain times of year are best for observing numbers and diversity of hummingbirds in Fort Myers:
Spring migration (March – May)
As ruby-throats arrive from Central America and rufous pass through from Mexico, hummingbird activity increases in March and April. Black-chinneds also migrate through the area during this time. Flowers are blooming and insects provide food for migration. By May, most migrants have passed through.
Summer (June – July)
June and July bring nesting season for the ruby-throats that live in the Fort Myers area. Males can be seen defending territories and courting females with elaborate dive displays. Females will be busy gathering food and nesting materials.
Fall migration (August – October)
Fall migration starts up in August as rufous hummingbirds pass through on their way south to Mexico from the Pacific Northwest. Buff-bellied hummingbirds also start appearing in the area during this time. Numbers and diversity peak in September and October.
Winter (November – February)
While not the busiest hummingbird season, a few species overwinter in Fort Myers. Ruby-throats are permanent residents. Some rufous and buff-bellied hummingbirds may spend the whole winter in the area around nectar feeders before migrating north again.
Tips for observing hummingbirds in Fort Myers
To have the best chance at observing hummingbirds up close in Fort Myers, consider these tips:
- Get or set up feeders – Adding nectar feeders to your garden or patio will attract hummers year-round.
- Plant native flowers – Native nectar sources like firebush, coral honeysuckle, and cardinal flower will bring in hummers.
- Provide insect food – Hummingbirds get protein from small insects, so plant flowers that will attract them.
- Use binoculars – Scanning tree canopies and gardens with binoculars in early morning increases sightings.
- Have patience – Hummingbirds are small, fast, and buzz about quickly. Patient and still observation is needed.
Following migratory patterns, exploring recommended sites, and utilizing feeders and gardens will provide the best opportunities to observe hummingbirds in Fort Myers. Now that you know when and where to see them, get out and experience these energetic pollinators!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fort Myers does host several species of hummingbirds throughout the year. The ruby-throated hummingbird is present year-round, while rufous, black-chinned, and buff-bellied hummingbirds migrate through the area in the spring and fall. Prime locations to spot hummingbirds include nature preserves, regional parks, gardens, and anywhere nectar plants and feeders are available. The best times to see hummingbirds in Fort Myers are during spring and fall migrations, though active birds can be observed all year with the right habitat. With lush natural areas, gardens, and maintained feeders, Fort Myers provides plentiful opportunities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy these tiny, hovering birds.
