As summer turns to fall, hummingbird enthusiasts may be wondering if it’s still safe and helpful to keep their feeders up. Here’s a look at some of the key considerations around feeding hummingbirds in the fall months.
When do hummingbirds migrate?
Most hummingbirds that summer in the United States and Canada migrate south in the fall to warmer climates. Here are some details on hummingbird migration patterns:
- Ruby-throated hummingbirds start migrating south as early as late July from the northern parts of their summer range. Migration peaks in August and September.
- Rufous hummingbirds start heading south as early as June or July from the most northern parts of their range. Most migrate in August and September.
- Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds often migrate in late summer or fall as well, though some may overwinter in parts of their breeding range.
The exact timing of migration depends on a number of factors like the weather and food availability. Generally, younger hummingbirds migrate before adults, and females migrate before males.
Is it still helpful to have feeders up in fall?
In most cases, keeping feeders up into the fall is beneficial for hummingbirds. Here’s why:
- Late-nesting hummingbirds rely on feeders as they raise their last brood of the season.
- Migrating hummingbirds need the energy boost from feeders to fuel their long journeys.
- Some hummingbirds (like rufous) migrate through areas far from their normal range and require feeders for food.
- Overwintering Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds depend on feeders in their winter habitat.
Experts generally recommend keeping feeders up through late September or even into October/November in some areas. This provides an important food source up until the last hummingbirds migrate through or settle into their winter grounds.
What about cleaning and maintenance?
Keeping feeders clean is always important, but especially during the late summer and fall when more birds congregate at feeders. Here are some tips:
- Clean feeders every 2-3 days with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Rinse well before refilling.
- Check the sugar water for black mold and other signs of spoilage. Change it out if it looks cloudy or dirty.
- Consider reducing to a 2:1 sugar water ratio (from the normal 4:1) to discourage bees.
- Consider bringing feeders in overnight to avoid overnight freezing if temps dip.
With a little extra care and attention, you can provide a healthy, safe food source for hummingbirds through the fall migration season.
Should I take down my feeders at some point?
Most experts recommend taking down hummingbird feeders in late fall once the last stragglers have migrated through. Here are some guidelines per region:
| Region | When to Take Down Feeders |
|---|---|
| Northeast | Late October/early November |
| Midwest | Mid to late October |
| South | Late October to mid November |
| Pacific Northwest/West Coast | Mid October to early November |
You can judge based on weather patterns in your specific area – take down feeders once freezing temps arrive. Leaving feeders up with sugar water may attract other animals and insects.
What about winter care?
In some regions, Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds may overwinter. Here are tips for their winter care:
- Use a heated bird bath to provide liquid water as winter temps drop.
- Provide sugar water feeders but bring in overnight if freezing.
- Provide feeders in a sheltered spot like under an overhang or porch.
- Switch to a sweeter nectar mix like 1:1 or 2:1 sugar water ratio.
Check feeders often and clean weekly to keep food fresh for wintering hummingbirds. Consider offering fresh fruit like orange slices too.
Should I get my feeders ready for spring?
You’ll want to have clean, filled feeders ready to go in early spring before hummingbirds start arriving again. Here are some tips:
- Thoroughly clean feeders with bleach solution and let air dry before refilling.
- Make fresh nectar and fill feeders about 1-2 weeks before hummers arrive.
- Start with 4:1 ratio sugar water.
- Hang feeders in the same locations as previous years if possible.
- Be prepared to change nectar regularly as spring migration starts.
Having food ready and waiting helps arriving hummingbirds save energy and refuel efficiently. Follow local migration reports and have feeders ready right on time!
Conclusion
With some simple preparations, you can provide essential food resources for hummingbirds throughout their fall migration and into winter and spring. Keep feeders clean, watch the weather, and time your feeder availability with hummingbird movement in your area. By supporting these tiny travelers throughout their seasonal movements, you’ll help ensure they have the energy needed to complete their epic migrations.
