Hummingbirds are one of the most fascinating birds that visit backyard bird feeders. With their iridescent plumage and incredible flying abilities, it’s no wonder that many people eagerly await the arrival of hummingbirds each year. But do hummingbirds come to feeders all year round? Or are there times when hummingbird feeders are likely to be empty?
The short answer is that in most regions, hummingbirds are seasonal visitors that only come to feeders during their spring and summer nesting season. However, some southern areas and warmer climates may host hummingbirds year-round. Let’s take a more in-depth look at hummingbird behavior throughout the year.
Spring Migration
In spring, hummingbirds begin migrating north from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. The timing of the migration depends on the species and region, but typically occurs anywhere from February to early May.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are one of the earliest species to arrive, reaching the Gulf Coast states as early as February. Rufous Hummingbirds follow shortly after, reaching the Pacific Northwest by March. Other common summer species like Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, and Allen’s Hummingbirds arrive in the southwest U.S between March and May.
As hummingbirds reach their summer breeding ranges, they seek out food sources to refuel after their long journey. This is why setting up hummingbird feeders in early spring is crucial to attract these tiny migrants to your yard. Food in the form of nectar provides the calories they need to rebuild fat stores after burning them during migration.
Spring Arrival Dates By Region
| Region | Arrival Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Southeast | February to March |
| Southwest | March to April |
| Midwest | April to May |
| Northeast | April to May |
| Northwest | March to May |
As you can see from the table, arrival times are earliest in the southernmost states and progressively later as you move northward. Hanging up feeders in advance of the average arrival dates for your area will ensure hungry hummers have a nectar source waiting.
Summer Nesting
Once settled into their breeding range, male hummingbirds stake out and defend territory where they perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. After mating, the females build tiny nests out of plant down, spider silk and lichen using spider or animal hair to bind it together.
The nest construction takes 6-10 days. Then the female lays a pair of pea-sized white eggs and incubates them alone for 12-16 days. Once the eggs hatch, both parents take turns gathering hundreds of meals of small insects and nectar for the nestlings.
This is the busiest time of year for hummingbirds. Their high metabolism requires immense calories as they vigorously defend territories, court mates, build nests, lay eggs, incubate, and continually gather food. Having a feeder nearby provides a convenient supplemental food source critical for their health and reproductive success.
Did You Know?
A hummingbird’s daily nectar requirements during nesting are estimated at 2-3 times their body weight. That would be equivalent to a 150 pound person needing 300-450 pounds of food per day!
Fall Migration
As summer ends, hummingbirds begin the journey back to their tropical winter homes. Fall migration is less synchronized than in spring, occurring over a broader timeframe depending on the region.
In the northeast U.S, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds may linger into October. But in the southwest, Rufous Hummingbirds begin leaving as early as June. The peak departure period for most hummingbirds tends to be late August through September.
Prior to crossing the Gulf of Mexico or deserts and mountains, hummingbirds have a critical need to accumulate fat reserves to power their migration. Abundant nectar from feeders allows them to pack on weight before subjecting themselves to a 500+ mile non-stop flight over open water.
Fall Departure Dates By Region
| Region | Departure Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Southeast | September to October |
| Southwest | July to September |
| Midwest | August to September |
| Northeast | August to October |
| Northwest | July to September |
Having feeders available through fall gives hummingbirds a source of energy as they prepare for and carry out migration. In warmer regions, some birds may linger into winter.
Overwintering Hummingbirds
The vast majority of hummingbirds retreat to tropical climates for the winter where they can access the flower nectar and insect food essential to their survival. However, more and more species in certain regions are overwintering and attempting to tough out the colder months.
In the southwest U.S, Anna’s and Rufous Hummingbirds are increasingly spending winters. And along the Gulf Coast, Buff-bellied Hummingbirds regularly overwinter. Other species like Allen’s, Calliope, Broad-tailed, and Black-chinned may overwinter in small numbers at the northern edges of their range.
For these birds trying to survive winter in sub-tropical climates, supplemental feeding is vital. In cold weather when flowers are dormant and insects scarce, feeders may provide their only consistent nutrition source.
Common Overwintering Species By Region
| Region | Species |
|---|---|
| Southwest | Anna’s, Rufous, Costa’s |
| Southeast | Buff-bellied, Rufous |
| West Coast | Anna’s, Allen’s |
| Southern Arizona | Rufous, Black-chinned, Broad-billed |
In these warmer regions, maintaining feeders through winter may attract lingering and overwintering birds when natural food sources are scarce.
Backyard Habitat Tips
To attract hummingbirds during the times of year they pass through or reside in your area, follow these tips:
- Hang feeders 1-2 weeks before expected arrival dates to provide nectar as early hummers show up.
- Use a nectar mix of 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Boil the water first and let cool before mixing.
- Avoid red dye since it provides no benefit and may be harmful to birds.
- Change nectar every 3-5 days in warm weather to prevent spoilage.
- Provide insect supplements like mealworms or aphid traps since hummingbirds get protein from small bugs.
- Include native plants with tubular red or orange flowers that provide natural nectar sources.
- In south or coastal areas, leave feeders up through winter for any overwintering hummers.
- Clean feeders thoroughly before refilling to prevent mold.
Following these tips will give hummingbirds the best chance of success whether they are passing through on migration or taking up residence in your backyard.
The Bottom Line
Hummingbirds will readily visit feeders in spring and summer while breeding across most of North America. In fall, maintaining feeder nectar helps fuel their long migration. While the majority head to tropical climates for winter, more species are attempting to overwinter along the west coast, Gulf states, and southwest. Providing a continuous supplemental food source can be the difference between life and death for hummingbirds braving the colder months. So consider keeping those feeders fresh and full through winter and early spring. Your efforts may be rewarded by a tenacious hummingbird sticking out the entire year in your area.
