When should I put out hummingbird feeders in North Carolina?

Hummingbirds are a beloved sign of spring and summer in North Carolina. Watching these tiny, energetic birds zip around your yard feeding on nectar from brightly colored feeders is a joy. Knowing when to put out hummingbird feeders to attract these flying jewels is important.

When do hummingbirds arrive in North Carolina?

Most hummingbirds that breed in North Carolina migrate south for the winter. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the most common species seen in the state. They begin arriving back from their wintering grounds in Central America in early April. Arrival dates can vary slightly from year to year depending on weather conditions along their migration route.

Here are the key time frames for ruby-throated hummingbird spring migration in North Carolina:

• Early arrivals: Some of the first hummingbirds may return to North Carolina in late March and early April.
• Peak migration period: The peak period when the most hummingbirds pass through is mid-April to early May.
• Nesting season: Most ruby-throats in North Carolina nest and raise young from May through July.
• Fall migration: The birds leave for their wintering grounds starting in August, with most gone by mid-October.

A few ruby-throats and other stray hummingbird species may linger into November but most do not overwinter in North Carolina.

When should I put out hummingbird feeders?

Many experts recommend putting out hummingbird feeders in early April in most parts of North Carolina to welcome the early returning birds. However, you may see them arrive even earlier some years depending on the weather. Mid-March is a good time to prepare your feeders before the bulk of the migration happens.

Here are some general guidelines for North Carolina hummingbird feeder timing:

• Early April: Put out your feeders by early April, especially in the southern and coastal areas of the state.
• Mid-April: By mid-April, most ruby-throats should be arriving across North Carolina.
• Late May: Peak migration ends, birds are nesting. Keep feeders freshly stocked.
• Mid-October: Most hummingbirds have migrated south for the winter.
• Early November: Only stray hummers lingering, can take down feeders.

Pay attention to flowering plants as well when timing your feeders. Put feeders out when native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs start to bloom. This will provide a continuous natural food source when the birds arrive.

Where should I place hummingbird feeders?

To attract hummingbirds, the best placement for your feeders is:

• On porches, decks, or patios close to the house.
• Near gardens containing nectar-rich flowers.
• Near windows so you can watch the birds up close.
• In lightly shaded areas protected from direct sun and rain.
• Away from areas where predators like cats may pounce.
• Close to trees, shrubs, and other perches where the birds can rest.

Hummingbirds are very territorial and may chase each other away from feeders. Putting out several feeders in different spots reduces bullying. Hang them at different heights to accommodate both male and female birds.

How do I prepare my hummingbird feeders and nectar?

Here are some tips for setting up clean, inviting feeders filled with fresh nectar:

• Use plain white cane sugar only, no honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye.
• Mix 1 part sugar with 4 parts hot water until dissolved. Let cool before filling feeders.
• Do not use black strap molasses or brown sugar.
• Clean feeders every few days with a vinegar solution rinse to prevent mold.
• Store unused nectar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Replace nectar every 2-3 days in hot weather, or every 5 days if cooler.
• Rinse feeders thoroughly before refilling.

Feeders with yellow, orange, red, fuchsia, or other bright floral colors are very attractive to hummingbirds. Avoid using red food dye as it provides no nutritional value.

What plants attract hummingbirds?

Including nectar-producing flowering plants in your yard will provide natural food sources for hummingbirds. They are specially adapted to feed on tube or bell-shaped blooms. Here are some top North Carolina native plants that attract hummingbirds:

Include a range of flowers that bloom in succession from early spring through fall to provide an ongoing natural food supply for hummingbirds.

Native trees and shrubs

Including native North Carolina trees and shrubs that provide an early spring food source when hummingbirds arrive is key. Here are some good options:

• Redbud: Blooms March to April
• Fringetree: Blooms April to May
• American wisteria: Blooms May to June
• Rhododendron: Blooms May to July
• Black locust: Blooms May to June
• Trumpet honeysuckle: Blooms May to September

How many hummingbirds will come to my feeders?

It depends on a few factors, but you can reasonably expect 2-4 birds if you have good habitat and plentiful feeders. Once word spreads, you may host even more!

Here are some factors that affect how many hummingbirds will come:

• Timely availability of feeders and fresh nectar when hummers arrive in an area.
• Quantity of feeders and their proper distribution around your property.
• Planting plenty of nectar-rich flowering plants and shrubs.
• Providing water sources like misters, fountains, or bird baths.
• Amount of safe cover, roosting, and nesting space in your yard.
• Minimizing threats from predators like outdoor cats.

With good habitat and care, you can help support your local hummingbird population and bring their dazzling colors to your home.

Conclusion

Putting out hummingbird feeders at the right time and setting up a welcoming yard is the best way to attract these special birds. In most of North Carolina, have your feeders ready to go by early April before the bulk of the ruby-throats arrive from their southern wintering grounds. Place feeders strategically around your yard and keep them freshly stocked with sugar-water nectar. Include plenty of nectar-rich native plants that provide food from spring through fall. Taking these simple steps will invite hummingbirds to take up residence and reward you with hours of up-close viewing!