Hummingbirds are one of the most beloved backyard birds, with their iridescent feathers and ability to hover and fly backwards. Many people put up hummingbird feeders in their yards to attract these tiny acrobatic birds. But when is the best time to put out hummingbird feeders? Here is a guide to what month you should put out hummingbird feeders based on your location.
What time of year do hummingbirds migrate?
Hummingbirds are migratory birds that spend the winter in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean islands. They start migrating north in February and March. Here are the general migration patterns:
- Western hummers like Rufous and Allen’s start migrating north along the Pacific Coast in early February
- Ruby-throated hummingbirds that summer east of the Mississippi River start moving north in mid-March from Central America
- Hummingbirds arrive in the southernmost US states like Texas, Louisiana, Florida in February and March
- They reach the northern states and Canada between May and early June
So the timing of when to put out feeders depends on where you live and when hummingbirds normally arrive in your area each spring.
Southern States
In the southernmost states like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and Louisiana, hummingbirds can be present year round or arrive as early as January or February. In these warm climates, you can put out hummingbird feeders as early as late January or February to attract early returning birds. Make sure to clean and replace the nectar regularly as it can spoil quick in warm weather.
Mid-Atlantic and Southeast
In mid-Atlantic states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and the Southeast region, most ruby-throats start arriving in mid-March. Put out your feeders in late February or early March before the main migration happens. Early arrivals appreciate the food source.
Northeast and Midwest
Hummingbirds arrive a bit later in the cooler northern states. In the northeast from Ohio to Maine and Midwest states like Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, hummingbird return is from mid-April to early May. Put out your feeders in mid-April to attract the first scouts.
West Coast and Northwest States
In Pacific Coast states like California, Oregon, and Washington, rufous hummingbirds arrive as early as late February. Hang feeders by early March. Some Anna’s hummingbirds may overwinter along the coast and appreciate the early food source.
In inland northwest states like Idaho, Montana, Utah, hummingbirds return in May. Put out feeders by mid to late April before the main migration reaches you.
Western Canada and Alaska
In western Canada and Alaska, rufous and calliope hummingbirds return in May. Put out feeders by mid-April before the long migration reaches your area.
What do hummingbirds eat?
In the wild, hummingbirds get most of their nutrition from drinking nectar from colorful tubular flowers. They also eat small insects for protein. At feeders, they eat homemade nectar made by mixing 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red food dye which are unhealthy for hummers. Boil the mixture for 1-2 minutes to dissolve the sugar and let it cool before filling feeders.
Best hummingbird feeders
Choose a feeder with the following features:
- Bright red color to attract birds
- Ant moat or bee guard to keep insects out of the nectar
- Multiple feeding ports for several birds
- Easy to disassemble and clean
Here are some top-rated feeder options:
| Feeder | Features |
|---|---|
| First Nature Glass Hummingbird Feeder | Glass bottle, 8 feeding ports, S-hook hanger |
| More Birds Hummingbird Feeder | Plastic, 7 ports, dishwasher safe |
| Aspects Bird Feeder | Glass, 6 ports, copper roof |
| Perky-Pet Antique Bottle Feeder | Glass bottle, 5 ports, metal base |
Where to hang hummingbird feeders
Hang hummingbird feeders in the following locations to attract birds:
- Near flowering plants, trees, and gardens that hummers are drawn to
- Close to trees, shrubs, and other perches so birds can rest between sips
- Near windows or seating areas for easy viewing
- In shaded spots protected from direct sun and rain
- High enough off the ground to deter other wildlife
Avoid hanging feeders in windy areas that may tip them over and spill nectar. Use an S-hook, chain, or plant hanger to easily hang feeders from tree branches, gutters, eaves, or a pole.
When to take down feeders
Leave hummingbird feeders up through the fall migration as the birds pass through on their way south for winter. Here are guidelines for when to remove feeders by region:
- Southern states: End of October
- Midwest: Late September
- Northeast: Late August to mid-September
- Pacific Northwest: Mid-September
- Canada: Late August
This provides food through the migration season as different birds move through each area.
Conclusion
Putting out hummingbird feeders at the right time of year provides an essential food source for hummingbirds as they return from migration. Use this guide based on your location to determine when hummers arrive in the spring and hang feeders 1-2 weeks in advance. With a properly stocked feeder in the right spot, you can enjoy watching hummingbirds dashing around your yard all summer and fall.
