Quick Answer
Yes, there are several species of hummingbirds that can be found in Saskatchewan during the summer months. The most common hummingbird species seen in the province are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and the Calliope Hummingbird. Hummingbirds migrate through Saskatchewan in the spring on their way to their breeding grounds, and return through the province in late summer/early fall as they migrate south for the winter. Prime hummingbird viewing season in Saskatchewan is typically May through September.
Overview of Hummingbirds in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan lies along the migration pathways for many hummingbird species that breed further north and winter farther south. The province provides important stopover habitat for these tiny birds to rest and refuel during their long journeys. Here are some key things to know about seeing hummingbirds in Saskatchewan:
Common Species
The two most widespread and frequently observed hummingbird species in Saskatchewan are:
– Ruby-throated Hummingbird – This is the only breeding hummingbird found in eastern Canada. Many Ruby-throats pass through or spend the summer in Saskatchewan.
– Calliope Hummingbird – One of the smallest bird species in the world. A summer visitor to the western half of Saskatchewan.
Peak Viewing
Hummingbirds start arriving in Saskatchewan in May as they migrate north to their breeding grounds. Numbers increase throughout the summer as more birds move through the province. Activity drops off in September as they begin migrating south again for the winter. Mid-May through August are the peak months to see hummingbirds.
Ideal Habitat
Hummingbirds are attracted to anywhere they can find nectar-producing flowers, including:
– Gardens, parks, and backyards in urban areas
– Meadows, prairies, and open woods in rural settings
– Riverbanks and lakeshores with wildflowers
They also need flowering shrubs and trees to perch and nest in. Ideal backyard habitat would include native plants, nectar feeders, and a water source.
Fun Facts
– Ruby-throated Hummingbirds weigh only 2-6 grams, less than a nickel!
– Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backwards
– Their wings beat up to 70 times per second
– They have incredibly fast metabolisms and must eat every 10-15 minutes
– Males don’t help build the nest or care for young, their role is only mating
Best Areas to See Hummingbirds in Saskatchewan
Here are some top sites around Saskatchewan that are known for excellent hummingbird watching:
Wascana Centre, Regina
This large urban park in the province’s capital has extensive gardens and natural areas that attract many hummingbirds throughout the summer. Species to look for include Ruby-throated, Calliope, Rufous, and even occasional rare vagrants.
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
Located in the southwest corner of Saskatchewan, this beautiful forested park with meadows and wetlands is a breeding hotspot and migratory stopover for Calliope Hummingbirds. Ruby-throats also present.
Saskatoon Area
The riverbank parks and extensive gardens of Saskatoon provide prime habitat for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in summer. Backyards with feeders in the city also host hummingbirds.
Narrow Hills Provincial Park
In the far north of Saskatchewan, this taiga forest park sees regular visits by Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in late spring/summer. A remote destination to see this species on its breeding grounds.
Grasslands National Park
This prairie park is an excellent site to spot Calliope and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds during the summer months as they migrate through the grassland and shrub-steppe habitat.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard in Saskatchewan
Here are some tips to make your yard or garden as attractive as possible to migrating and breeding hummingbirds in Saskatchewan:
Provide Nectar Feeders
Use store-bought or homemade nectar feeders to provide a reliable supplemental food source. Make nectar with a 4:1 ratio of water to white sugar. No red dye is necessary. Place near trees/shrubs so birds have perches.
Plant Native Flowers
Grow native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees that provide nectar. Examples include bee balm, columbine, trumpet honeysuckle, weigela, lilac, etc. Avoid modern hybrids with less nectar.
Offer Water Sources
A mister, sprinkler, or bird bath with fresh water gives hummingbirds a place to bathe and drink. Move water location frequently to avoid buildup of mosquitoes.
Avoid Pesticides
Chemical pesticides and insecticides reduce insect populations that hummingbirds rely on for food. Use natural options instead.
Place Feeders Strategically
Site feeders in open areas away from bushes where predators may lurk. Hang near trees/shrubs to provide cover and perching spots. Set up multiple feeders to reduce squabbling.
| Hummingbird Species | Saskatchewan Breeding Range | Saskatchewan Migration Status |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Eastern half of province | Common summer breeder, migrated through province in spring/fall. |
| Calliope Hummingbird | Western half of province | Common summer breeder, migrated through province in spring/fall |
| Rufous Hummingbird | Rare summer vagrant | Rare spring/fall migrant |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | No breeding range | Uncommon spring/fall migrant through province |
When and Where to See Hummingbirds in Saskatchewan
Here is an overview of the optimal timing and locations to spot hummingbirds during the spring and fall migration through Saskatchewan:
Spring Migration (April – May)
The first hummingbirds start trickling through Saskatchewan in early April. Numbers increase through May as more birds return north. Prime spring sighting spots include:
– Wascana Centre and Regina gardens – mid April onward for early Ruby-throats
– Saskatoon parks and riverbank – late April and May for Ruby-throats
– Cypress Hills area – May for Calliopes and Ruby-throats
– Grasslands National Park – late May for Calliopes
Summer Breeding Season (June – July)
Resident populations peak as birds establish breeding territories. Young fledge in July/August. Great summer viewing locations:
– Suburban gardens and parks across Saskatchewan – Ruby-throats common
– Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park – many Calliopes and some Ruby-throats
– Narrow Hills Provincial Park – breeding Ruby-throats in the taiga
– Meadows and riparian areas – look for territorial males
Fall Migration (August – September)
Southbound migration picks up in late August, with numbers increasing through September. Some key fall watching spots:
– Wascana Centre gardens – August and September for migrating Ruby-throats
– Saskatoon area – August/September for Ruby-throats passing through
– Grasslands National Park – mid-August through September for Calliopes and other species
– Cypress Hills – late August/September for migrating Calliopes and Ruby-throats
Conclusion
In summary, several species of hummingbirds can be found spending the summer or migrating through Saskatchewan, primarily the Ruby-throated and Calliope. Peak viewing is typically May through September. Providing nectar feeders, native plants, and water can attract these tiny pollinators to yards and gardens during migration or the breeding season. Getting out to some of Saskatchewan’s parks and natural areas also offers the chance to see hummingbirds feeding on wildflowers during the summer. With the right habitat and timing, you have a great chance to observe these energetic, acrobatic birds in the province. Watching hummingbirds can add an exciting element of nature and wildlife to any Saskatchewan summer.
