Hummingbirds are a common sight in California, darting from flower to flower with their fast beating wings. But when exactly are these tiny birds present in the state? Here is a quick overview of the hummingbird season in California:
Quick Answer
Most hummingbird species are present in California from early spring through late summer or early fall. The Anna’s hummingbird is the only species that remains year-round in some parts of California.
Spring Arrivals
The hummingbird spring migration in California begins in February and March. The first arrivals are usually males seeking out territories and food sources. By mid-March through early April, the bulk of the migrating hummingbirds have arrived in California.
Some of the early spring hummingbird species to arrive in California include:
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Allen’s Hummingbird
- Calliope Hummingbird
These migratory hummingbirds spend the winter in Mexico and Central America. As spring blooms come into season in California, they quickly make their way north to breed and take advantage of the newly available food sources.
Peak Hummingbird Season
The peak hummingbird season in most of California is April through July. Some hummingbird species that arrive during this period include:
- Black-chinned Hummingbird
- Costa’s Hummingbird
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird
During these months, hummingbird numbers reach their highest as migrants arrive and nesting and breeding begins. Flowers and nectar sources are also at peak bloom, providing the tiny birds with plenty of food options.
This is the best time of year to see a diversity of hummingbird species in California. Up to eight species may be present, depending on the specific location within the state.
Late Summer Departures
As summer ends, most of California’s hummingbirds begin preparing for fall migration. Numbers start to decline in August as the first southbound migrants leave the state. This includes species like rufous hummingbirds and calliope hummingbirds.
By September, the majority of hummingbirds have departed California for their wintering grounds. However, a few stragglers may remain through October or even early November, depending on food availability.
The exceptions are Anna’s hummingbirds and Costa’s hummingbirds. These species take up year-round residence in some parts of California.
Overwintering Anna’s Hummingbirds
Anna’s hummingbirds are the only species that has expanded its range to remain through winter in California. This aggressive, territorial bird first began overwintering in California in the 1960s.
It is now a common year-round resident along coastal California and parts of inland southern California. Its ability to tolerate cold winters and adapt to urban gardens and feeders has allowed it to succeed as a non-migratory population.
Outside of its winter range, Anna’s hummingbirds still migrate like other species from inland California and the Pacific Northwest.
When and Where to See Hummingbirds in California
Here is a more detailed look at when and where different hummingbird species occur in California:
| Species | Breeding Range | Migration Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Anna’s Hummingbird | Year-round along coast, Central Valley, and Southern California | Year-round resident in parts of range, elsewhere February – November |
| Allen’s Hummingbird | Coastal California and coastal mountain ranges | March – September |
| Rufous Hummingbird | Northwest California | April – July |
| Calliope Hummingbird | Northwest California | April – July |
| Black-chinned Hummingbird | Western foothills and mountains | April – September |
| Costa’s Hummingbird | Deserts, Central Valley, southeast California | February – November, year-round in parts of range |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | High mountains and meadows | May – September |
As this table shows, the optimum regions to see many hummingbird species are along the northwest coast and in California’s mountains from April to July. However, hummingbird stopovers can occur in backyards and gardens across the state during migration seasons.
Southern California and the Central Valley have fewer species but longer seasons, especially with year-round Anna’s and Costa’s hummingbirds. Costa’s hummingbirds also migrate through California’s desert regions in spring and fall.
Best Hummingbird Flowers and Feeders in California
To attract hummingbirds in California, focus on having nectar-rich flowers in bloom during spring, summer, and fall. Native plant species that hummingbirds favor include:
- Sages
- Columbines
- Penstemons
- California fuchsia
- Lupine
- Wild buckwheats
Non-native flowers like nasturtiums, zinnias, and trumpet vines are also excellent choices. Have a succession of blooms from March through September.
You can also supplement with hummingbird feeders. Use a nectar mix of one part white sugar to four parts water. Avoid red food coloring, as this can be unhealthy for hummingbirds over time. Clean and disinfect feeders every few days during warm weather.
Place feeders in shady areas and near shrubs or trees where hummingbirds can perch and seek shelter. Provide multiple feeders spread around your yard to reduce territorial conflicts.
Key Facts About Hummingbirds in California
- At least eight hummingbird species regularly breed in California, along with rarer vagrants.
- The Anna’s hummingbird is the only abundant year-round resident species.
- Most hummingbirds migrate to Mexico or Central America for the winter.
- Spring migration happens February – April, fall migration is August – November.
- Peak breeding season is April – July.
- Flowers, flowering shrubs, and feeders are key food sources for hummingbirds.
- Providing a continuous sequence of blooms and fresh nectar is key to attracting and supporting hummingbirds.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds grace California gardens and wild areas from early spring through late summer, depending on the species. These energetic, shimmering jewels of the bird world migrate huge distances to take advantage of seasonal blooms and breeding opportunities. By landscaping with nectar-rich flowering plants and maintaining clean feeders, you can attract these tiny migrants to your own backyard.
With a diverse range of species across habitats from mountains to desert to sea coast, California is a major hummingbird hotspot. Pay attention to the bloom seasons, have feeders ready, and you’ll be rewarded with up-close views of these captivating birds!
