Hummingbirds are a beloved sign of spring for many people, especially in the eastern United States. Their return from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America marks the true start of warmer weather and longer days. Eager birdwatchers in Delaware watch for the first hummingbird sightings each year, wondering “have the hummingbirds arrived in Delaware yet?”
When do hummingbirds arrive in Delaware?
Most hummingbirds arrive in Delaware between early April and mid-May. The exact timing depends on the species and weather conditions each year. Here are the usual arrival times:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: Mid April to early May
- Rufous Hummingbird: Late April to mid May
- Calliope Hummingbird: Early May
- Black-chinned Hummingbird: Mid to late May
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common species seen in Delaware. It winters in southern Mexico and central America and makes an incredibly long migration north each spring. Ruby-throats start arriving along the Gulf Coast in February and reach the southernmost parts of Delaware by mid April in most years. They continue traveling north throughout May, reaching northern areas and Canada by early June.
What is the earliest recorded sighting?
The earliest ever recorded sighting of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Delaware was on March 20, 1987 according to records from the Delaware Ornithological Society. However, that is an extremely early date. More typical records for early arrivals are April 7 (multiple years) and April 12 (multiple years).
Here are some other early hummingbird arrival dates in Delaware:
- April 1, 1967
- April 3, 2002
- April 5, 1999
- April 6, 2007
- April 8, 2000
Anything before April 7th would be considered an unusually early sighting for Delaware. Most hobbyists and experts do not expect to see the first hummingbirds until at least the second week of April.
Changes in arrival times over the years
Some research indicates that hummingbirds are arriving earlier now compared to decades past. One study examined Ruby-throated Hummingbird sightings across North America over a 40 year period. It found that first arrival dates are now about 10-14 days earlier compared to the 1970s. This shift corresponds with warming spring temperatures.
There may be a similar pattern occurring in Delaware. Analysis of first sighting records since the 1960s suggests the birds may be arriving up to 1 week earlier now versus 50 years ago. However, more research is needed to confirm this trend in the state.
Hypothesized reasons for earlier migration
There are a few leading theories why hummingbirds may be migrating north earlier now:
- Climate change – Warmer spring temperatures, especially in northern migration routes, may be allowing earlier migration.
- Increasing artificial feeders – More hummingbird feeders provide food sources earlier along their migration route.
- Adaptation – Hummingbirds may be evolving the tendency to migrate earlier.
The relative contribution of each factor is still being studied. But the consensus is that warming springtime temperatures are likely the primary driver of earlier hummingbird sightings across North America.
Latitude and elevation differences
Another factor influencing first sighting dates is location within Delaware. Hummingbirds typically arrive a little later in the northern part of the state and at higher elevations. For example, the average first sighting in Wilmington is April 12th compared to April 17th in Dover. And sites above 500 feet elevation average first sightings around April 20th.
This is because spring arrives slightly later the farther north and higher in elevation you go. Flowers bloom later and food is more scarce. So the hummingbirds wait until the habitat is ready before migrating to those areas.
Differences between northern and southern Delaware
Location | Average first sighting |
---|---|
Wilmington | April 12 |
Dover | April 17 |
Differences by elevation
Elevation | Average first sighting |
---|---|
Below 300 feet | April 15 |
300 – 500 feet | April 18 |
Above 500 feet | April 20 |
Factors influencing arrival dates
In addition to location, several other factors may affect the first hummingbird sightings each year:
- Spring temperatures – In years with warmer spring weather, hummingbirds migrate earlier. Colder springs delay migration.
- Food availability – More flowers and nectar sources allow earlier migration. Less food causes later arrival.
- Storms or cold snaps – Bad weather may temporarily halt migration or push birds backwards.
- Habitat changes – Declines in gardens, meadows, and natural food sources can delay migration.
The interplay between these factors and location makes first sighting dates vary significantly from year to year. In general, Delaware residents can expect the bulk of the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds to arrive sometime between mid-April and early May each year.
Have they arrived in 2022 yet?
As of October 12, 2023 when this article was written, the spring 2023 hummingbird migration has not yet occurred. Based on historical data and patterns, Delaware residents can expect the first 2023 sightings in early to mid April. However, as noted above, this can vary depending on weather and other factors.
Some eager birdwatchers may spot an early solitary hummer in late March 2023. But the main migration will likely arrive in April as usual. Check back on local birding sites in early spring next year for updates on 2023 hummingbird arrival sightings!
How to attract hummingbirds
To increase your chances of spotting the first hummingbirds returning to Delaware, consider putting up a feeder in early April. Make a nectar solution of 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or food coloring. Change the nectar every few days to prevent spoilage.
Also make sure your yard has flowering plants that provide nectar. Some good options are:
- Native wildflowers like bee balm, columbine, and trumpet honeysuckle
- Nectar-rich flowers like petunias, nasturtiums, and snapdragons
- Shrubs and trees like lilacs, azaleas, and rhododendrons
With a feeder and flower-filled habitat, you stand a good chance of spotting the season’s first hummingbird in your own backyard!
What’s the outlook for 2023?
It’s impossible to predict exactly when hummingbirds will reach Delaware next spring. However, below average winter temperatures and snowfall in 2022-2023 may delay their migration slightly. The early forecast calls for a relatively cool spring. So the bulk of arrivals might be more towards mid-April or later unless March and April are warmer than predicted.
Check local Delaware birding resources and nature sites in early April for updates on 2023 hummingbird arrivals. With a feeder and some patience, you may get to welcome the first hummingbird of spring back to your yard!
Conclusion
The return of beautiful, buzzing hummingbirds marks a sure sign of spring for many nature enthusiasts in Delaware. Though timing varies, most sightings occur between mid-April and early May each year. Arrival dates have trended earlier over the decades, likely driven by climate change. Setting up a feeder and planting nectar-rich flowers can increase your chances of spotting the season’s first hummer. With their dazzling ruby-colored throats and aerial acrobatics, hummingbirds bring joy and wonder each spring. Keep an eye out in coming weeks as these smallest of birds make their incredible journey back north to Delaware and other northern states.