Hummingbirds are a beloved backyard visitor for many Pennsylvania residents. Watching the fast-flying birds hover and feed is an enjoyable part of the warmer months. Knowing how long to keep hummingbird feeders up can help attract and care for these special birds.
When do hummingbirds arrive in Pennsylvania?
Most hummingbirds arrive in Pennsylvania in early May. The most common species seen in the state are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and the Rufous Hummingbird. Ruby-throats are eastern species that nest in the state. Rufous Hummingbirds are western species that migrate through Pennsylvania during spring and fall migrations.
Early May is the time to put up hummingbird feeders. Arrival dates can vary slightly based on weather patterns each year, but the first week of May is a good target. Having feeders up and ready when the earliest scout birds arrive will help attract more hummingbirds to your yard.
When do hummingbirds leave Pennsylvania?
Most hummingbirds leave Pennsylvania by late September or early October. Again, exact dates depend on weather. Cold snaps and frost will trigger the departing birds to continue their southern migration. By mid-October, most hummingbirds have left the state.
Rufous Hummingbirds leave earlier, many departing by late August or early September. Ruby-throats continue passing through into October. The last stragglers occasionally linger into the first part of November in southern parts of the state.
How long should you keep hummingbird feeders up?
Based on typical hummingbird arrival and departure times, most experts recommend keeping feeders up from early May through late October in Pennsylvania.
Here are some specific timeframes to follow:
- Put up feeders in early May, or by mid-May at the latest.
- Keep feeders up through September and October as hummingbirds migrate south.
- Take down feeders by mid-to-late October or when consistent frosts begin.
This will provide food for the birds as they arrive and pass through on migration. And it will give nesting Ruby-throats a consistent food source through the breeding season.
Tips for attracting hummingbirds all season
Follow these tips to bring hummingbirds to your feeders from spring through fall:
- Use a nectar mix of 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Boil the water first and let it cool before mixing.
- Avoid red food coloring, as it is not healthy for the birds.
- Change the nectar every 2-3 days in warm weather to prevent spoilage.
- Clean feeders thoroughly every 1-2 weeks with hot water and vinegar.
- Use feeders with red or yellow parts, as these colors attract the birds.
- Place feeders in a visible location near trees or shrubs, which provide perches for hummingbirds.
- Supplement with flowers that provide nectar, such as columbines, trumpet vines, and petunias.
Early spring tips
Here are some extra tips for attracting the first arrivals in early spring:
- Get feeders up in early May to welcome early arrivals.
- Start monitoring hummingbird sightings online or through apps so you know when the birds are getting close.
- Place feeders in sunny spots, as hummingbirds are drawn to warmth in spring.
- Use red feeders or red decorations if possible to grab the attention of passing birds.
Late fall tips
In the fall, follow these tips to provide fuel for migrating hummingbirds:
- Keep feeders freshly stocked through September and October.
- Mix a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water in cooler weather to provide extra calories.
- Place feeders near bright flowers or decorated with ribbons to attract migrating birds.
- Leave feeders up until consistent frosts begin.
Key Points
- Put hummingbird feeders up in early May in Pennsylvania.
- Keep feeders up through late September or October.
- Take down feeders by mid-to-late October or with the first frost.
- Use a nectar mix of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
- Change nectar every 2-3 days in warm weather.
- Clean feeders every 1-2 weeks.
- Use red or yellow feeders placed in visible, sunny spots.
- Supplement feeders with nectar flowers and flowering shrubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hummingbird feeder?
The best feeders have a few key features: red or yellow coloring to attract birds, an ant moat or bee guard to keep insects out, easy cleaning, and well-sealed feeding ports that don’t leak. Glass, plastic, or ceramic feeders all work well as long as they are cleaned regularly.
Where should I hang hummingbird feeders?
Hang feeders in open, visible areas 5-10 feet off the ground near trees, shrubs, or gardens that hummingbirds can perch in and fly out from. Make sure to keep them out of reach of predators.
Do hummingbirds migrate through Pennsylvania?
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird nests in Pennsylvania and other eastern states. The Rufous Hummingbird passes through Pennsylvania during spring and fall migrations between its breeding grounds in the northwest and wintering grounds in the southwest.
What flowers attract hummingbirds?
Some good nectar flowers to plant for hummingbirds include columbines, trumpet vines, cardinal flowers, bee balms, petunias, phlox, foxgloves, and gladiolus. Native wildflowers are excellent choices as well.
How long does it take for hummingbirds to find a feeder?
Hummingbirds can discover new feeders pretty quickly, sometimes within a day or two of one being put up, especially in migration. Bright colors, placement near flowers and trees, and visibility from a distance help attract them more rapidly.
Conclusion
Caring for hummingbirds by providing nectar feeders is an enjoyable way to support these special migratory birds. Follow the tips outlined here to know when to put feeders up in spring, keep them clean and full through summer and fall, and take them down as the birds depart for warmer climates. With a little care and effort, you can provide an oasis for hummingbirds visiting your Pennsylvania yard throughout the seasons.
