Hummingbirds are a beloved part of the California landscape. Their diminutive size and energetic personalities make them a joy to observe. Hummingbirds are present year-round in California, but the species and populations fluctuate based on the season.
Winter Months (December, January, February)
The winter months in California are when hummingbird populations reach their lowest point. While some hummingbird species like Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds remain in California year-round, most migratory hummingbirds have traveled south to Mexico for the winter. The Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds that stay utilize feeders and flowering plants to sustain themselves through the colder months when natural nectar sources are less abundant.
In addition to Anna’s and Allen’s, other winter hummingbirds that may be spotted in California include:
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Calliope Hummingbird
- Black-chinned Hummingbird
- Costa’s Hummingbird
These species are rare winter visitors that occasionally wander north of their typical wintering grounds in Mexico. Backyard feeders may attract them during their travels. While winter sees fewer hummingbirds, devoted birders search for these unusual species.
Spring Months (March, April, May)
As spring arrives, hummingbird populations begin to swell across California. The long days and mild temperatures bring plentiful blossoms that provide nectar for fueling migration and breeding. Some of the spring arrivals include:
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Calliope Hummingbird
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird
- Black-chinned Hummingbird
These migratory species return from Mexico to breed and take advantage of the spring bloom. Allen’s and Anna’s hummingbirds also become more active and visible as they initiate nesting activities.
Late spring is when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds pass through California on their way to breeding grounds further north. This makes late April and May a exciting time for rare bird sightings as birders hope to spot these hummingbirds during their brief stopover.
Summer Months (June, July, August)
Summer sees hummingbird diversity and populations at their peak. Hot weather and long days promote blooms and breeding. Species that may be spotted in summer include:
- Anna’s Hummingbird
- Allen’s Hummingbird
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Calliope Hummingbird
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird
- Black-chinned Hummingbird
- Costa’s Hummingbird
In addition to these common species, vagrant hummingbirds occasionally wander into California during the summer months. Birders are on high alert for rare visitors like Buff-bellied Hummingbirds and Violet-crowned Hummingbirds.
By providing feeders and planting nectar-rich flowers, you can attract hummingbirds to your yard. Hummingbird populations are at their peak, with migrants overlapping with breeding residents. Pay attention for the possible appearance of a stray rarity passing through.
Fall Months (September, October, November)
As autumn arrives, most migratory hummingbirds depart California for wintering grounds to the south. Allen’s and Anna’s hummingbirds remain, but other species migrate out on cue with the change in daylight hours. Species on the move include:
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Calliope Hummingbird
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird
- Black-chinned Hummingbird
By late fall, only Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds persist around the state. As flowers fade and nectar dries up, these resident birds rely more heavily on feeders for sustenance. Keeping feeders clean and filled helps provide the essential energy they need to survive the winter.
Conclusion
While Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds can be found year-round, most species pass through California on a seasonal schedule. Winter sees the lowest diversity and populations, as migrants vacate the state. Spring brings excitement with returning migrants and potential rare sightings. Summer is peak hummingbird watching, with a mix of residents and visitors. Fall sees the departure of most migrants, leaving the wintering Anna’s and Allen’s hummingbirds.
By landscaping with nectar plants and providing clean feeders, you can help support California’s hummingbirds across the annual cycle of migration and breeding. The months may shift the cast of characters, but hummingbird magic can be found year-round if you know when and where to look.
Here is a table summarizing the seasonal occurrence of common hummingbird species in California:
| Species | Winter | Spring | Summer | Fall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anna’s Hummingbird | X | X | X | X |
| Allen’s Hummingbird | X | X | X | X |
| Rufous Hummingbird | (rare) | X | X | X |
| Calliope Hummingbird | (rare) | X | X | X |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | X | X | X | |
| Black-chinned Hummingbird | (rare) | X | X | X |
| Costa’s Hummingbird | (rare) | X | X |
By familiarizing yourself with this seasonal schedule, you can be prepared to identify and enjoy the hummingbirds that share the California landscape throughout the year.
Here are some additional tips for attracting hummingbirds during the different seasons in California:
Winter
- Provide nectar feeders to supplement winter nectar needs
- Use a nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water
- Select feeders with red components to attract hummingbirds
- Position feeders out of direct sunlight and rain to prevent spoilage
- Clean feeders weekly with hot water and vinegar
Spring
- Hang feeders by early March to attract returning migrants
- Plant early blooming flowers like currants, gooseberries, and flowering maples
- Use a nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water
- Provide insect feeders to provide protein for nesting
- Supplement with oranges, bananas, and melon for nutrients
Summer
- Provide shade near feeders to offer relief from heat
- Use a weaker nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 5 parts water
- Plant cannas, fuchsias, penstemons, aloes, and sage
- Water garden to keep flowers blooming through dry season
- Clean feeders twice a week to prevent spoilage
Fall
- Gradually transition feeder solution to a 1:4 ratio as cold approaches
- Provide feeders with perches to allow resting between sips
- Plant late blooming flowers like snapdragons, salvia, and agastache
- Leave seed heads and dried stalks for perching
- Protect feeders from freezing at night if needed
By tuning into the seasonal ebbs and flows, you can create an enticing backyard habitat to enjoy California’s hummingbirds across all months of the year. The diversity of species shifts with spring and fall migration, but attentive birders can find magic in each season. Do your part by landscaping smartly and maintaining clean feeders and you’ll be rewarded with up close views of these captivating tiny birds.
Some final tips for hummingbird spotting by month:
January
Search for rare winter hummingbirds like Calliope, Black-chinned, and Rufous. Note differences in gorget colors and patterns compared to Anna’s and Allen’s.
February
Listen for the rising, liquid calls of Allen’s and Anna’s as breeding activities intensify. Watch males perform dramatic dive displays.
March
Rufous Hummingbirds return from Mexico this month. Listen for the distinctive rufous “chip” call. Watch for territorial males chasing each other.
April
More migrants arrive including Calliope, Broad-tailed, and Black-chinned. Enjoy a possible Ruby-throated Hummingbird passing through.
May
Keep an eye out for rarities drawn in by spring blooms. Watch for nest building, feeding young, and other breeding behaviors.
June
Allen’s Hummingbird nests may have a second brood. Fledglings explore flowers and feeders, lacking adult iridescence.
July
Hummingbird populations are at their peak. Watch for feisty males defending territory and seeking females.
August
Keep feeders clean and filled as flowers dry up in summer heat. Young birds visit feeders frequently to fuel growth.
September
Catch fall migrants like Rufous before they depart south. Note duller juvenile plumage compared to adults.
October
Enjoy last chance sightings of lingering migrants before winter arrives. Be alert for unusual stray species passing through.
November
As most migrants vacate, focus attention on year-round Anna’s and Allen’s at feeders and flowering plants.
Conclusion
California provides a diverse range of hummingbird species across the seasons. By tuning into the changing monthly patterns, you can appreciate both year-round residents and seasonal migrants. Plant a garden with year-round blooms and maintain clean feeders to attract these energetic tiny birds. The fluttering arrival of migrants in spring, flurry of breeding activities in summer, and quieter winter months each have their own magic. Hummingbirds bring joy, wonder, and the promise of new life all year long to California gardens.
