Hummingbirds are a beloved sign of spring and summer in Virginia. Their arrival brings color, life, and activity to backyards and gardens across the state. But when exactly do these tiny birds appear and depart each year? Here’s a look at the typical hummingbird season in Virginia.
When do hummingbirds arrive in Virginia?
Most hummingbird species arrive in Virginia in early to mid April. The timing coincides with spring flowering, providing the nectar that sustains hummingbirds. Here are the usual arrival months for common Virginia hummingbirds:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: Mid March to early April
- Rufous Hummingbird: Late March to mid April
- Calliope Hummingbird: Mid to late April
- Black-chinned Hummingbird: Mid to late April
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most widespread and common hummingbird in eastern North America. As early as mid March, the first Ruby-throats appear in Virginia as they migrate north from Mexico and Central America. Numbers increase through April.
Rufous Hummingbirds nest in the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies. They migrate southeast to spend the winter along the Gulf Coast. As they return northwest in spring, some will stop to rest and refuel in Virginia for a week or two starting in late March.
Calliope and Black-chinned Hummingbirds have shorter migrations within western North America. A few vagrants will stray east and pass through Virginia in April during their trips between their wintering and breeding grounds.
What are the peak months to see hummingbirds in Virginia?
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are abundant across Virginia from May through early September. Other species like Rufous Hummingbirds peak from mid April through May. This coincides with the spring bloom period when natural nectar supplies are plentiful.
Here are the peak months to see hummingbirds in Virginia:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: May to early September
- Rufous Hummingbird: Mid April to May
- Calliope Hummingbird: Mid to late April
- Black-chinned Hummingbird: Mid to late April
During these months hummingbirds are most active and easiest to spot as they visit backyards and gardens. Peak viewing also corresponds with breeding. Male hummingbirds perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females.
When do hummingbirds nest and raise young in Virginia?
Hummingbirds that migrate to Virginia to breed begin building their tiny nests and laying eggs in early May once they have arrived at their summer grounds. The female constructs the nest out of plant down, spider silk, buds, moss and lichens, binding it together with webbing.
The nests are only about 1.5 inches wide and typically placed on the branch of a tree or shrub. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds often nest in trees along forest edges, roadsides, and in backyards. Here are the main nesting and breeding months:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: May through June
- Rufous Hummingbird: Mid May through mid June
- Calliope Hummingbird: Late May through mid June
- Black-chinned Hummingbird: Late May through June
The female lays 1-3 tiny white eggs and incubates them for about two weeks before they hatch. The chicks fledge in around 3 weeks, after which they become independent.
By late June and into July, many adult hummingbirds are busy caring for their recently fledged young. You may see more juvenile birds visiting feeders at this time as the young learn to forage on their own.
When do hummingbirds migrate from Virginia?
Most hummingbirds leave Virginia by late September or early October. The timing coincides with decreasing daylight, dropping temperatures, and diminishing natural nectar supplies as flowers fade into fall.
Here are the typical departure months for hummingbirds migrating from Virginia:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird: Mid August through early October
- Rufous Hummingbird: August through early September
- Calliope Hummingbird: Mid September through early October
- Black-chinned Hummingbird: Mid September through early October
Some Ruby-throated Hummingbirds may linger into early November in Virginia if food resources allow. By late October at the latest, all hummingbirds have usually departed for their winter grounds until the following spring.
What is the hummingbird season by month in Virginia?
Here is an overview of the hummingbird season in Virginia summarized month-by-month:
| Month | Hummingbird Activity |
|---|---|
| January – February | No hummingbirds present, wintering on southern grounds |
| March | Early Ruby-throats and Rufous Hummingbirds arrive by mid-month |
| April | Peak migration month, all species arrive by early May |
| May | Nesting, breeding, and peak viewing |
| June | Young fledge, adults busy feeding |
| July | Best viewing of juveniles from nests |
| August | Some early southbound migration begins |
| September | Main migration month, numbers decrease |
| October | Final stragglers depart by late month |
| November – December | Absent until spring return |
Where and how to see hummingbirds each month in Virginia
Here are some tips for observing hummingbirds during each month they are present in Virginia:
March
The first Ruby-throats and Rufous Hummingbirds arrive. To spot them, watch for activity at early blooming flowers like azaleas, crocuses, and ornamental flowering trees. Place feeders with nectar (1 part sugar to 4 parts water) in yards and gardens to attract passing migrants.
April
More migrants continue to arrive in Virginia throughout April. Keep feeders up and watch for buzzing wings and swift movements near blooming flowers. Listen for high-pitched chipping notes as males announce territory.
May
Flowers are abundant as migration peaks. Check beds of nectar-rich flowers like columbine, trumpet vine, and salvia. Watch for aerial displays by breeding males over territories. Listen for the characteristic buzzing wings.
June – July
Adults are busy feeding fledglings. Provide plenty of flowers and fresh nectar in feeders for the increased activity. Watch for the unpredictable antics of juvenile birds as they learn to feed.
August – September
Migrants departing means fewer hummingbirds. But keep an eye on your flowers and feeders, as southbound migrants may stop to refuel on their journey south. Rufous Hummingbirds finish migrating through Virginia in early September.
October
Only a stray Ruby-throat or Calliope Hummingbird may linger into October. Have feeders cleaned and ready just in case a late migrant passes through your yard on its way south.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds grace Virginia with their beauty and activity for around seven months each year. The busy breeding season lasts from April through July. With careful timing and the right flowers and feeders, it’s possible to enjoy these tiny birds in your yard from the first spring migrants to the final stragglers headed south in fall.
