As the weather starts to warm up in the springtime, many people eagerly await the return of hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are remarkable little birds that capture the imagination with their diminutive size, dazzling iridescent colors, and ability to hover and fly backwards. When is the best time to put out hummingbird feeders in anticipation of their return from migration?
When do hummingbirds migrate?
Hummingbirds migrate north in the spring from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. Most hummingbirds migrate at night to avoid predators and conserve energy. Their migration is an incredible feat considering their tiny size – the ruby-throated hummingbird weighs only about as much as a penny!
The timing of hummingbird migration depends on the species and location:
Species | Migration Timeframe |
Ruby-throated | February to May |
Black-chinned | Mid-March to early May |
Rufous | February to June |
Allen’s | Early March to late April |
Anna’s | December to June |
Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate through the eastern United States from February to May, arriving at their breeding grounds about two weeks after the first spring wildflowers bloom. In the West, Anna’s and rufous hummingbirds start migrating north as early as January and February.
Migration is timed so that hummingbirds arrive when flower nectar and insect populations are sufficient to sustain them. Migrating too late risks arriving after the peak bloom period.
When do hummingbirds arrive in spring?
Here are some general timeframes for when hummingbirds typically show up in spring:
Location | Arrival Timeframe |
Southern States | Mid-February to mid-March |
Mid-Atlantic States | Early April |
New England States | Mid-April to early May |
Midwestern States | Early to mid-May |
Pacific Northwest | Mid-February to mid-March |
Southwestern States | Mid-February to early April |
In southern states like Texas, Louisiana, and Florida, the first ruby-throated hummingbirds may arrive as early as mid-February. Further north, they usually arrive in New England in mid-April to early May. In the Pacific Northwest, Anna’s and rufous hummingbirds return as early as mid-February.
The exact timing can vary by up to a few weeks year to year depending on weather patterns. Arrival is earlier in warmer springs and later if spring is cool or delayed. Tracking first sightings on websites like Hummingbird Central can help pinpoint when the first hummingbirds return to your area each year.
What’s the best time to put out hummingbird feeders?
Most experts recommend putting out hummingbird feeders about two weeks before hummingbirds normally arrive in your area, around early to mid-March across much of the United States. However, it’s fine to put feeders out as early as late February or early March in southern states. Hummingbirds won’t visit until they return from migration and flower nectar is not yet available.
It’s best to avoid waiting until you actually see hummingbirds because hungry birds may already be around. Once ruby-throats arrive in the spring, they are in a hurry to refuel and start breeding. Having a nectar source ready when they show up will help attract and keep them coming to your yard.
The important thing is to keep feeders up consistently through the end of summer. Hummingbirds will remember reliable food sources and return regularly as long as nectar is available. Take feeders down in fall after hummingbird activity declines. Keeping feeders up late may prevent migration.
How do I know if hummingbirds are in my area?
Here are some signs hummingbirds have returned:
- Seeing hummingbirds visiting flowers and feeders
- Hearing the distinct buzzing sound of their wings
- Spotting nests in trees
- Observing male courtship displays
- Increased reports on local birding sites and forums
The best confirmation is actually seeing hummers in your neighborhood. Watch for them feeding at blooming plants, drawn to the color red, or buzzing by your head. Listen for the humming noise their wings make in flight. In late spring, look for nests about the size of a walnut sheltered on branches.
You can also check local online groups, nature centers, and parks to see if other people are reporting hummingbird sightings and activity. This can help confirm they have returned to your area if you haven’t observed them yet.
Conclusion
The return of hummingbirds is an exciting harbinger of spring for many people. Paying attention to migration patterns and average arrival times for your region can help you determine when to put feeders out. Getting nectar feeders up about two weeks before hummers arrive in your area will welcome them back reliably every year. With a little planning, you’ll be rewarded with the joy of seeing these energetic pollinators buzzing around your yard on their remarkable migration journey.