Hummingbirds are remarkable little birds that capture our imagination. Their diminutive size, stunning iridescent colors, and incredible flying skills make them a delight to watch. Many people enjoy putting up hummingbird feeders in their yards during the warmer months to attract these flying jewels. However, hummingbirds migrate in the fall to warmer climates where they can find adequate food supplies. This leaves many hummingbird lovers wondering when is the right time to take down their feeders for the winter. In this article, we’ll look at the factors that go into determining when hummingbird feeders should come down for the colder months.
When do hummingbirds migrate?
Hummingbirds are migratory birds that breed during the summer in North America and migrate south to Mexico and Central America for the winter. Most species that summer in the United States and Canada begin migrating in August and September. The exact timing of migration depends on the species and location.
Here are some guidelines for when common North American hummingbirds migrate:
- Ruby-throated hummingbird – Most leave the northern U.S. by early October.
- Rufous hummingbird – Migrate through the Pacific Northwest July to September.
- Allen’s hummingbird – Leave their breeding range in early fall.
- Anna’s hummingbird – Those that breed in Canada migrate by late September.
- Calliope hummingbird – Migrate through the western U.S. July through September.
- Broad-tailed hummingbird – Leave the Rockies by early to mid-September.
- Black-chinned hummingbird – Migrate through southwest states July to September.
The exact timing depends on factors like weather and food availability, but most hummingbirds will have migrated south by October.
How long should I leave my feeder up in fall?
Many people wonder if they should take down hummingbird feeders right away when migration starts or leave them up longer to provide fuel for migrating birds. Here are some guidelines on how long to leave hummingbird feeders up in fall:
- Keep feeders up until early-mid October – This provides late migrating hummingbirds with a reliable food source on their journey south.
- Take down feeders by late October/early November at the latest – Most hummingbirds will have migrated by this time and leaving feeders up starts to risk freeze damage.
- Use food supply to guide timing – Take down feeders when food stops being consumed, indicating local hummingbirds have left.
- Consider your climate – Leave feeders up longer in more northern areas where migration is later.
- Remove feeders promptly after frost – Freezing temperatures can damage feeders.
The best approach is to observe local hummingbird activity. Leave feeders up until food stops being consumed regularly, then take them down to avoid damage. Most areas should take down feeders by late October or early November.
What are signs hummingbirds have migrated from my area?
Here are some signs that indicate your local hummingbirds have likely migrated away for the winter:
- Lack of hummingbird activity or sightings around the feeders
- Unconsumed food – Fresh nectar remains in feeders 1-2 days
- Lack of aggressive behavior by males – Migration cues territorial behavior to cease
- Nights becoming cold – Hummingbirds avoid temperatures below 50 degrees F
- Most flowers have died back – Reduced natural food sources
- Passing of fall equinox – Changing length of daylight a migration trigger
- First frost – Cold temperatures prompt migration
If you notice these signs, it is likely safe to assume local hummingbird populations have migrated south and you can take down your feeders. Observing the activity and food consumption around your feeders is the best way to determine when it’s time.
What steps should I take when removing my feeder?
When you’ve determined it’s time to take down your hummingbird feeder for the winter, here are some tips for proper removal and storage:
- Stop refilling 1-2 weeks before removal – Discourages stragglers from sticking around
- Thoroughly clean the feeder before storing – Use a dilute bleach solution and scrub all surfaces
- Take apart removable parts – Stores more compactly after disassembly
- Allow to fully dry before storing – Prevents mold growth
- Store in a dry location protected from pests – A garage, shed or closet works well
- Keep out of direct sunlight – Prolonged sun exposure can damage/fade the feeder
- Consider covering openings with mesh – Keeps out insects while storing
- Check before rehanging next season – Clean and replace any damaged parts
Proper cleaning and dry storage will help your hummingbird feeder last many seasons. Timely removal in the fall prevents freeze damage.
What maintenance should I do before rehanging my feeder in spring?
Before setting your hummingbird feeder back up next spring, be sure to do the following:
- Thorough cleaning – Wash with hot water and non-toxic cleaner, rinse well
- Change old sugar water – Dump out any old nectar from last season
- Assess and replace damaged parts – Cracks, chips, torn feeding ports, etc.
- Check for leaks – Fill and test hanging to check for drips
- Remove pests – Check for insect nests, spiders, mold, etc.
- Make any necessary repairs – New hanging wire, glue, etc.
- Choose proper hanging location – Sheltered spot for weather protection
- Use fresh nectar – Mix new batch of 1 part sugar 4 parts water
- Clean feeder regularly – Prevent harmful bacteria/mold growth
Doing this maintenance ensures your hummingbird feeder will be clean, safe and ready to attract and nourish hummingbirds when they return next season.
Conclusion
Determining when to take down your hummingbird feeder requires balancing providing food for migrators versus avoiding freeze damage. Most experts recommend keeping feeders up through early-mid October, then taking them down by late October or early November at the latest. Pay attention to food consumption and local migratory patterns to determine optimal timing. When you do take it down, proper cleaning and dry storage will help your feeder last many years. Do some maintenance before rehanging next spring and your feeder will be ready to delight hummingbirds again all summer long!
