Quick Answer
Yes, there are hummingbirds in Texas right now. The most common hummingbird species found in Texas currently are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and the Black-chinned Hummingbird. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is found throughout eastern Texas and into the Panhandle region. The Black-chinned Hummingbird is widespread across western and central Texas. Other less common species like the Rufous Hummingbird, Calliope Hummingbird, Broad-tailed Hummingbird, and Anna’s Hummingbird can also be found in certain parts of the state at this time of year. The peak migration and breeding period for hummingbirds in Texas is March through October.
When do hummingbirds arrive in Texas?
Most hummingbirds arrive in Texas in early spring to breed and nest. Here are the usual spring arrival times in Texas for the major hummingbird species:
– Ruby-throated Hummingbird – Late February to Mid-March
– Black-chinned Hummingbird – Mid-March
– Rufous Hummingbird – Late March
– Calliope Hummingbird – Mid-April
– Broad-tailed Hummingbird – Late April
– Anna’s Hummingbird – Mid-March along southern Texas border
The timing of arrivals can vary slightly from year to year depending on weather conditions and other factors. But most hummingbirds are reliably present in Texas by early to mid-spring.
What species of hummingbirds live in Texas?
These are the most common hummingbird species found in Texas:
| Species | Region |
|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Eastern and central Texas including Panhandle |
| Black-chinned Hummingbird | Central and western Texas |
| Rufous Hummingbird | Mainly western Texas |
| Calliope Hummingbird | Far western Texas |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | Higher elevations in western Texas |
| Anna’s Hummingbird | Southern Texas border |
Other less common vagrant species like the Violet-crowned Hummingbird, Costa’s Hummingbird, Allen’s Hummingbird, and Berylline Hummingbird may make rare appearances in certain parts of Texas as well.
When is the best time to see hummingbirds in Texas?
The peak viewing period for hummingbirds in most parts of Texas is from spring through early fall (March-October). Here are some of the best times to observe hummingbirds in Texas by species:
– Ruby-throated Hummingbird – Mid-March to October
– Black-chinned Hummingbird – April to September
– Rufous Hummingbird – April and May as they migrate through Texas
– Calliope and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds – May and June in west Texas
– Anna’s Hummingbird – March through July in south Texas
The greatest diversity and concentrations of hummingbirds are present during spring migration from March to May as multiple species move through the state. But Ruby-throats and Black-chins can still be readily observed throughout the summer and into early fall in many areas.
Where are the best places to see hummingbirds in Texas?
Some top spots in Texas to observe hummingbirds include:
– High Island along the Gulf Coast – stopover site for spring migrant hummingbirds
– Davis Mountains State Park – nesting Black-chinned and Rufous Hummingbirds
– Chisos Mountains in Big Bend – several species nesting
– State parks near the Rio Grande – Buff-bellied Hummingbirds
– Southeast Texas forests – Ruby-throats nesting
– West Texas oases – nesting Black-chins and other species
Other excellent places include state parks, nature reserves, gardens, and backyards with abundant nectar flowers and feeders throughout Texas. Providing nectar feeders is a great way to attract migrating and breeding hummingbirds to gardens and outdoor spaces.
Do hummingbirds stay in Texas year-round?
Most hummingbirds that breed in Texas migrate south for the winter and do not remain year-round. However, a few species like Anna’s Hummingbird and some Rufous Hummingbirds may overwinter in south and west Texas, especially during mild winters. By February and March, northbound migrants return and the populations build back up through spring and summer. Ruby-throated and Black-chinned Hummingbirds nest in Texas during the warmer months then vacate the state by October as cold weather approaches. So while a few hummingbirds can sometimes be found in Texas year-round, most clear out by late fall and return in early spring.
What plants and flowers attract hummingbirds in Texas?
Some native Texas plants and flowers that attract hummingbirds by providing nectar include:
– Trumpet Creeper – Red tubular blooms, found statewide
– Turk’s Cap – Bright red blooms, eastern half of Texas
– Cardinal Flower – Red blooms, eastern Texas
– Lantana – Clusters of red, orange, yellow blooms, statewide
– Columbine – Red blooms, west Texas
– Firewheel – Red blooms, statewide roadside plant
– Texas Sage – Tubular red blooms, west Texas
– Salvia – Red, pink, orange, south and central Texas
– Honeysuckle – Tubular red blooms, statewide
Non-native plants like fuchsias, impatiens, petunias and flowering tobacco also attract hummingbirds to gardens when blooming. Providing a continuous bloom of nectar flowers from spring to fall will bring in hummingbirds throughout the seasons.
Should I put out hummingbird feeders in Texas?
Yes, hummingbird feeders can be a great way to attract and observe hummingbirds in Texas at any time of year. The sugar-water mix offered by feeders provides an excellent supplemental food source to the natural nectar from flowers. Feeders are especially helpful during fall migration when fewer flowers are in bloom and for wintering hummingbirds in south Texas. Feeders should be kept clean and the nectar mix changed 2-3 times per week to prevent spoilage when hot. Placing feeders near flowers, trees and shrubs provides perches and shade for hummingbirds coming to the feeder. Suspending feeders or placing on a stand works better than hanging from trees or walls which can make them sway and leak.
Conclusion
In summary, a variety of hummingbird species migrate through and breed in Texas primarily during the spring through fall seasons. The most widespread and commonly observed species are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in eastern Texas and the Black-chinned Hummingbird in central and west Texas. Other species like the Rufous, Calliope, Broad-tailed and Anna’s Hummingbird can also be found in certain regions. While the peak viewing is during spring migration and summer nesting,Anna’s Hummingbird and some Rufous Hummingbirds may overwinter in south and west Texas. Providing nectar feeders and planting flowers that bloom from spring to fall will help attract hummingbirds to gardens and outdoor spaces. So hummingbird watching is an enjoyable activity for much of the year throughout the state. With preparation and knowledge of their patterns, Texans can enjoy observing these energetic, beautiful birds in their yards and communities.
