Hummingbirds are one of the most beloved backyard birds, known for their diminutive size, incredible speed, and beautiful iridescent plumage. Many people eagerly await the return of hummingbirds each spring and take great delight in seeing these tiny creatures buzzing around their yards and gardens.
Putting out hummingbird feeders is one of the best ways to attract hummingbirds to your outdoor space. However, timing is important when it comes to hummingbird feeders. There are many factors to consider when determining the right time to put out hummingbird feeders in your area. Keep reading for tips on identifying when it’s time to put out hummingbird feeders where you live.
When do hummingbirds return from migration?
Hummingbirds are migratory birds that breed during the summer across much of North America. They spend the winter in warm climates like Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean islands. The exact timing of when hummingbirds return to northern breeding grounds depends on the species and location. Here is an overview of hummingbird migration patterns:
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is the most widespread and commonly seen hummingbird in Eastern North America. This species generally begins arriving along the Gulf Coast by early February. They progressively reach their breeding grounds farther north over the next two months. Most ruby-throats return to the Upper Midwest, New England, and Canada by late April or May.
Rufous Hummingbird
The rufous hummingbird breeds in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. They begin migrating north as early as January. Some of the first rufous hummingbirds usually reach Oregon and Washington by late February and March. The migration continues through spring, with most rufous hummingbirds arriving in Alaska by May.
Allen’s and Anna’s Hummingbirds
These two hummingbird species are common along the Pacific Coast. Both are year-round residents across parts of California. Farther north, Allen’s hummingbirds begin returning from southern wintering grounds by late February. Anna’s hummingbirds arrive slightly later, in March and April.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
This small hummingbird nests across the western and southwestern United States. Black-chins start migrating back to breeding areas like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona as early as January. Their arrival is usually complete by March.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
The broad-tailed hummingbird summers across the Rocky Mountains and high plains. They follow a timeline similar to rufous hummingbirds, often arriving in Colorado, Wyoming, and other mountain states by early April.
Weather conditions and food availability
The exact timing of spring migration for each hummingbird species depends heavily on weather and food resources along their routes. Hummingbirds time their migration to match flower bloom and the emergence of nectar-providing insects in each region. This ensures they have sufficient food fueling their travel and for breeding.
During warm, early springs, hummingbirds may arrive at their breeding grounds well ahead of a typical schedule. Alternatively, harsh weather like late freezes can delay migrating hummingbirds from reaching some areas. Tracking local weather patterns and vegetation growth can help better predict when hummingbirds might show up in your location each spring.
When to put out hummingbird feeders by region
One general rule of thumb is to put out hummingbird feeders about 2-3 weeks before hummingbirds have historically arrived in your area, based on average local migration timing. Here are some guidelines for different regions:
Northeast and Midwest
These regions typically see the first ruby-throated hummingbirds in early to mid-April. Most experts recommend putting out feeders by late March or early April. Avoid putting out feeders too early while overnight freezing temperatures still occur.
Southeast
In southern and coastal areas like Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina, hummingbirds may arrive by late February and March. Place feeders by early to mid-March. In northern parts of these states, mid-to-late March is likely a safer bet.
Southwest
Hummingbirds often reach Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas by February. Consider putting out feeders by late January or early February. At higher elevations, early March may be better.
Pacific Northwest and West Coast
Some Anna’s and rufous hummingbirds arrive along the Pacific Coast in February. However, March and April see heavier migration. Put out feeders by mid-February to early March to attract early arrivals.
Alaska
Hummingbirds don’t typically reach Alaska until May. Provide food by mid to late April in most areas. Give extra time for frost to clear along the Gulf of Alaska.
Identifying arrival in your area
In addition to average arrival times, paying attention to local hummingbird activity can help identify when it’s time to put out feeders in your specific location:
– Consult with wildlife officials, nature centers, and birding groups about observed spring hummingbird activity in your county. These groups may track and report very early arrivals.
– Watch for natural food sources like early blooming flowers and flowering trees. Increased insect activity is also a sign conditions are right for hummingbirds.
– Listen and watch for reports of hummingbird sightings in your neighborhood and surrounding towns through birding sites and social media groups.
– Look for other migratory species like warblers, orioles, and grosbeaks returning. Hummingbirds often arrive around the same time.
– Check for hummingbirds regularly as warmer weather approaches. Even a single sighting means it’s time to fill those feeders!
Preparing feeders for hummingbird arrival
Once you determine it’s the appropriate time to put out hummingbird feeders in your area, make sure you provide a safe and healthy feeding set-up:
– Thoroughly clean feeders with hot water and white vinegar. Rinse well. Never use soap.
– Use plain white cane sugar dissolved in water at a 4:1 ratio. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or added red food coloring.
– Replace sugar water every 2-3 days, or daily in hot weather. Keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
– Hang sturdy feeders in a shady location to prevent spoilage. Choose feeders with perches that make it easy for hummingbirds to feed.
– Avoid placing feeders near windows, fences, or other collision hazards. Set up additional feeders at least 10 feet apart to reduce competition.
– Add flower plantings with tubular red, orange, and pink blooms that provide additional natural nectar sources.
Hummingbird arrival is an exciting harbinger of spring
Watching for returning hummingbirds and putting out fresh feeders gives something fun to look forward to as the weather warms up each year. With a little preparation using the tips above, you can help provide a nourishing welcome buffet for migrating hummingbirds after their long journey back home. Enjoy observing and listening to these energetic birds as they buzz around your yard through summer and fall before migrating south again. Tracking their migration and arrival back again next year may become an annual tradition that reminds you spring has sprung.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hummingbird feeder?
There are many excellent hummingbird feeder options to choose from. The best feeders have a simple design that is easy to clean and fill. They are made of durable, non-porous materials like glass or thick plastic that won’t harbor bacteria. Good feeders have inverted reservoirs to prevent leaking. Look for wide openings and built-in perches to accommodate hummingbirds.
When should I take down hummingbird feeders?
In most regions, hummingbird feeders can be kept up through late summer or early fall. This provides fuel for migrating hummingbirds. Take down feeders once hummingbird activity declines, usually by late September or October. In warmer climates like the Southwest and California, keep feeders up as long as hummingbirds continue to visit them.
How often should hummingbird nectar be changed?
It is important to change sugar-water nectar frequently to prevent spoilage. In hot weather, nectar should be replaced every 1-2 days. When temperatures are cooler, nectar lasts 3-5 days. Only fill the feeder with enough nectar for 1-2 days to minimize waste. Keep unused nectar refrigerated for up to two weeks.
What plants attract hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are drawn to tubular flowers in the red, orange, and pink color spectrum. Popular hummingbird plants include bee balm, cardinal flower, trumpet vine, coral honeysuckle, and native columbines. They also feed heavily on trees like mimosa and crape myrtle when in bloom.
How can I attract more hummingbirds?
Providing multiple feeders in a variety of locations will accommodate more birds. Adding a water mister or small fountain gives hummingbirds a place to bathe and drink. Ensure nearby plants provide adequate shelter and nesting spots. Avoid using pesticides that reduce insect populations hummingbirds rely on.
Conclusion
Determining the optimal time to put out hummingbird feeders requires paying attention to regional migration patterns and local sightings of returning birds. While there is some variation depending on your exact location and weather, early spring is the best time to provide fuel for hummingbirds coming back from their winter grounds. With the right feeder set-up and supplemental blossoms, you can create an attractive and nourishing space for hummingbirds arriving at their breeding territories. The sight of these tiny, fast-moving birds gracing your yard with their presence is one of the delights of the season.
