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Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: Wintering northward at a nectar feeder near you?

December 22, 2015

Thank to Lauren Flesher for this guest student blog post. Lauren describes how Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are expanding their winter range into the southeastern United States.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in a Tennessee snow storm.
photo © Bob Vuxinic

Hummingbirds, with their small size, striking colors, brilliant iridescence, and rapid hovering flight, are often thought of as flying jewels. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, found throughout eastern North America, are especially beloved by backyard birdwatchers. But by winter, most hummingbirds will have left their nectar feeders behind, having migrated south to Central America and Mexico. In fact, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are known for their amazing migration across the Gulf of Mexico, a 500-mile journey that takes 20 hours of non-stop flying. That’s quite a feat for a bird that only weighs a few grams! But over the last 25 years, some hummingbirds have found a way to avoid that strenuous flight by wintering in the warmer parts of the southeastern United States. The wintering range of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird has expanded dramatically in the last several decades with the range shifting nearly 200 miles northward. These hummingbirds can now reliably be found in winter from the Gulf Coast states up the Atlantic Coast to South Carolina.

FeederWatch species distribution data from 2000 and 2013 demonstrate the northward expansion of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird's range.

To better understand the winter ecology of these hummingbirds at the northern edge of their new winter range, researchers intensively studied birds in one South Carolina backyard. They studied the birds passing through and wintering in the area for four years, gathering data on age, sex, and frequency of return. The research team banded 416 hummingbirds with minuscule identification rings, each with a specific sequence of numbers, so that individual birds could be identified. At the end of the study period, the researchers had accumulated interesting results.

The likelihood that an individual would return to the study site for more than one winter was about 19%, a higher return rate than what had been previously documented at study sites farther south. Among females, the return rate was even greater, reaching more than 31%. Some individuals returned every winter during the study period, while others returned only once or twice. None of the hummingbirds present during the winter lived in the area during the summer, suggesting that the summer residents had migrated south and the winter residents were from breeding populations farther north. Furthermore, during winter more males than females were present, especially among juvenile birds. This suggests that different sexes and ages winter in different places, a strategy used by many bird species, but a pattern not previously documented in Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.

FeederWatchers report that Anna's Hummingbirds of western North America are wintering farther north too.
photo © Maggie MacDonald

The researchers predict that wintering Ruby-throated Hummingbirds will continue to move farther north as the climate continues to warm. Wintering closer to their breeding grounds not only increases their chances of surviving migration, but also allows them to start breeding sooner. Who knows? Maybe in a few decades we’ll never have to spend a winter without hummingbirds.

You can help study wintering hummingbirds by signing up for Project FeederWatch and counting the birds that visit your yard.

Reference: Cubie, D. 2014. Site Fidelity, Residency, and Sex Ratios of Wintering Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) on the southeastern U.S. Atlantic Coast. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology 126: 775-778.

Lauren Flesher is senior at Cornell University studying sustainable agriculture. Her area of study includes the development of methods for avian conservation in agroecosystems, and the mitigation of avian pest damage.

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93 comments
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93 replies on “Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: Wintering northward at a nectar feeder near you?”

patty says:
December 28, 2015 at 9:33 pm

I live in Clinton NC and we have had an unusually warm “winter”. Our Christmas was spent in sundresses and shorts instead of snow jackets and thermals. I have noticed at least two hummingbirds still hanging around eating off my feeders. Is it too late for them to migrate? Is this normal behavior or a result of our confusing weather?

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maria alvarez says:
December 29, 2015 at 11:17 am

I love humming birds. Why are humming birds are they called like that because they hum”?

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Jane Coryell says:
January 20, 2016 at 1:48 pm

One day I was on my deck near the hummingbird feeder and wearing a red sweater. A hummingbird flew within a couple of feet of me, and I discovered why they’re called hummingbird. They do indeed hum.

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Nancy Vergin says:
September 17, 2017 at 4:18 pm

The sound of their wings beating very fast. It sounds like humming

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Mary Bargeloh says:
August 29, 2024 at 8:36 pm

“ IF” get close enough you can hear a humming sound of their wings.

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skifeeder says:
December 30, 2015 at 7:04 am

Thanks for sharing your view. Really its a nice blog, keep in touch.

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skifeeder says:
December 30, 2015 at 7:06 am

Thanks for sharing your views. Really its a great blog. keep posted these type of blog.

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Charles Tyrrell says:
December 30, 2015 at 6:06 pm

I live in NW Arkansas. This winter I have a young male broadtail hummingbird coming to a feeder multiple times a day.

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Donna Haynes says:
January 20, 2016 at 2:53 pm

Hi Charles! I am the Publicity Chairperson for the Arkansas Audubon Society. I would like to learn more about your Broad Tail! Could you please email me at birdiehaynes@yahoo.com. Thank you!

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Lyndal York says:
January 20, 2016 at 5:03 pm

Charles, did you obtain a photo of your hummingbird? If it is a broad-tail that would be an exceedingly rare discovery. I am the Curator for the rare bird records that are maintained by the Arkansas Audubon Society.

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Joan says:
January 20, 2016 at 6:47 pm

Charles,

Where do you live, and would you let folks come see and photograph your broadtail hummingbird?

Thank you.
-Joan

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Jon Crouch says:
January 5, 2016 at 4:44 pm

I have to wonder how many winter hummingbirds are around here. I live in east-central Indiana, and have heard some recent reports of Rufous Hummingbirds in Ohio and other surrounding areas. However, not many people keep their hummingbird feeders out during the winter, and of those that do, even fewer pay attention to them. And of those that do see hummingbirds during the winter, how many report them?

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Karla Rogers says:
September 10, 2023 at 6:36 pm

I had one till jan 1 about 10 years ago. I lived in Portage indiana. I reported it. It turned very warm that day. Never saw him again. I think of him from time to time wondering if he made it south ok. I dont know what kind of hummer it was.

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James says:
January 9, 2016 at 2:33 am

I live in Santa Clara, California about 40 miles south of San Francisco. I keep a feeder stocked with sugar water and see hummingbirds this year coming many times to the feeder every day even now into January 2016. I hope there are enough insects around to feed them the protein they need.

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andree says:
January 9, 2016 at 7:50 pm

How, wonderful,, to see a Hummingbird,, in winter!!,
To all of you who share, your comments and pictures,,Wherever,, you is,,
Know,, that you are read,
and that all your feedback on any bird,, and feeder pics.. are always warmly shared,, by many
and thanks for your generous sharing.. for the winters are long…at least here…
Greetings for the new year 2016
Andree Dubreuil ,,
Trois-Rivières, Quebec

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Gary Kimmel says:
January 20, 2016 at 11:26 am

We live in Southern Shores on the Outer Banks and have had Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds at our feeder during the winter ever since we put it up – 7-8 years ago. Right now, we have a female and juvenile male, who take turns – except when the Baltimore Oriole is camped out on the feeder. I’ve heard that the hummingbirds that are here in the winter are not the same ones that are here in the summer – is that true?

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Beverly Sales says:
January 20, 2016 at 11:44 am

In Citrus Heights we have a feeder in the back yard and one near the front porch. I watch our two hummers zip around together and race straight up in the air sometimes. But they won’t feed together. One takes the backyard and one the front porch.

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Dan Johnson says:
April 1, 2017 at 11:02 pm

Put up more Hummingbird feeders. The more the merrier
Cheers:

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JAIME OJEDA says:
January 20, 2016 at 12:27 pm

I live in Northern Virginia and I have had large numbers of red throated hummingbirds for years. I don´t understand why this article says that they go as far north as SC.

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dandree@cgocable.ca says:
June 9, 2016 at 10:58 pm

Hello, Jaime Ojeda.. i read what you wrote,, unfortunately,, I live in Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
I wish,, i could answer your question… I cannot,,
But, Know,, I have read, your comment..
Greetings.. from us to you..
continue,, we read you.. and. that is what is important,,

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Lindsay says:
September 4, 2017 at 3:44 pm

During the winter I believe the article means?

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Felice Andersen says:
January 21, 2016 at 2:40 pm

I live in Tsawwassen on Boundary Bay, located between Vancouver and Vancouver Island in south western British Columbia. My 4 feeders are in constant use: Anna’s all year round and Rufous during the summer. They never share the feeders with others. Usually, a male h-brid will perch close-by ‘ his’ feeder and chase others away. I have always wondered why that is, may be because of lack of available food.When I take down the feeders to clean them they follow me right to the house.

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dandree@cgocable.ca says:
June 9, 2016 at 11:05 pm

I read your comment but. somehow,, living in Québec,, the terms of your feeder birds are somewhat not clear.
I imagine, you are probably refering to hummingbirds..
please,, tell me more,, everything,, and take into considerration,, that all over the world.. we look and read your comments.. and need so much more informatation,, and we really enjoy reading,, do not give up.. simply,, give more détails.. in the meantime,, All the best.
and Greetings.. from simply Quebec

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Pat says:
February 3, 2016 at 9:23 am

I live in Southern California and have 5 feeders up. They start very early, seems like just as the sun is coming up and its a blitz of activity all day long with the most right before sundown. I’ve seen several different colors and they come right up to us and hummm away! I keep feeders up all year as I never see them go away entirely. Love it!

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dandree@cgocable.ca says:
June 9, 2016 at 11:16 pm

hello, pAT,,
sOMEHOW,, your entry,, just got the spot,, i was brought up in San mATEO, cALIFORNIA,, and now live in Trois-Rivières, Québec,Canada,,
California,, in the recent polls,, had the most species,, and in the State of Birds.. you,, are so infinitely Lucky.. to have so many species,, I forgot your question,, do forgive me.. But, Know,, that you are indeed, and should eac h and every day.. appreciate,, all the birds, you may greet in your yards.. Pat,, just continue and share, with the rest of the world.. your garden, and your birds..
Greetings,, from Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada..
No links, no social medias, no advertising, is associacted with Mrs. Andree Dubreuil, comment,, All are simply and nice,, thanks, and greetings..

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Doug Stewart says:
February 3, 2016 at 5:12 pm

Every “serious” birdwatcher knows that hummingbirds hum because they do not know the words. But seriously, what do hummingbirds eat in the winter in the northern edges of its winter range?. Not many flowers or bugs about even in the Carolinas.

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Cindy Guida says:
February 10, 2016 at 6:27 pm

2/10/16 In late December we realized that we had a Hummer here in Carolina Beach, NC at our deck feeder. Since I only get to see it in early morn. and early evening…I’m not sure what kind it is. However, at 5:45pm, it stayed at the feeder, just sitting on the rim, for about 20 mins. Tonight (currently 37 degrees) it will dip to 25-27 degrees after midnight…. Per a post, I have made it’s mixture at 3 to 1, instead of the usual Summer mixture of 4 to 1. I hope this helps. We expect the temp. to be in the teens later on this week-end….has anyone had a Hummingbird that survived that low? Wish I could find a web site that explained how they manage to stay warm enough and if there is anything else one might do to assist it’s survival. Thank you!

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Jim says:
March 3, 2016 at 3:56 pm

Thanks for the fascinating article, Lauren! I’m feeding a few dozen Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at this very moment, doing my part to make their Mexican vacation all it can be.

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dandree@cgocable.ca says:
June 9, 2016 at 10:49 pm

I am not on any social medias,, but,, continuously,, always look forrward to all comments and observations, which all of you.. are fortunate to observer.. Simply said, continue,, share, links, love, and carry on..
To look at a bird, for an instant,, is to carry on, and believe that you,, were important, in that moment..
and know.. that for an infinite sight.. you have lived,,,and enjoyed what so many also share with you..Birds. l..
All birds are wonderful.. and I hope the sight of any of them.. carry and lift ,, your gratitude of seeing them..
to all, I wish you,, a good night.. to give a seed, a piece of bread,, a feeder,
think of the birds..
And make it part of your world..

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Helmut Somogyi says:
November 16, 2016 at 8:04 pm

Hi, i live in Vernon British Columbia, the north Okanagan Valley Canada. My home is of on altitude of 700 meters, about 2100 feet. It is the first time that i have a Humming Bird at this time of the year 2016-11-16 temperature goes down to nearly freezing every night. I guess there is not much i can do for the bird, will it fly further south when it starts to freeze ? I would like to hear from someone familiar with habits of Hummingbirds.

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Francine Rudeen says:
December 12, 2016 at 11:14 pm

If your hummingbird, probably an Anna’s, is still using your feeder you can try several things to keep it happy in cold weather. Place a heat lamp next to the feeder to keep it fluid and to provide a warm spot for the bird to sit. Hold your hand by the feeder to make sure that it won’t be too hot for the bird. Some people have 2 feeders and keep one inside. Switch a thawed feeder outside when the other one freezes. Or make your own heated feeder. Check the Internet for ideas.

Good luck! Anna’s are expanding their winter range are turning up and thriving in cold states like Idaho and even Alaska.

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Tom O'Connor says:
December 17, 2016 at 11:59 am

I’m in Central Oregon on the southwestern edge of the Ochoco Mtns. at 3800 feet.

It was -6 degrees last night and this morning I had my rogue hummingbird [I think it is an Allen] at the feeder that I left up for the first time in five years.

I fitted it with a cozy made of multiple layers of foiled bubble wrap last night and put it back out at this morning at twilight.

I didn’t think it would survive the night—amazing life forms.

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TERRY says:
February 14, 2021 at 4:34 pm

We keep one feeder ready to go in the house sitting on the heat vent. Last night it was 27 out. Today its 29. We switch every 2 hours.

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Donna Santa Maria says:
November 22, 2016 at 10:20 pm

We just moved to Payson, AZ this year.Altitude of 5,000 feet. We had so many hummers during the summer. Counted 15 of them one evening between our two feeders. They have all left several weeks ago, except one smaller hummer which has a red spot on his neck, hence his nickname of little redneck. I am concerned that he will not survive the winter if it snows. also looking to report this to a local bander.

Thanks for any information on helping him survive.

Donna

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Scott says:
November 27, 2016 at 6:38 pm

I live in Prescott, AZ at 6,000 ft elevation. We’ve had a few nights with temperatures in the 20’s in the past week or so & the first snow of the season fell this afternoon, but daytime temperatures had been in the 60’s until today. Moments ago, a hummingbird was at my feeder (Annas?). We’ve had 2 pairs, 1 larger & 1 smaller pair, that frequent our feeders & we often see them fighting with their same-sized counterparts over what I guess to be territorial rights. We’ve seen less of them lately & are not sure how many are still in the vicinity. My wife and at least 1 other house on our block still had flowers blooming as of earlier today so I presume there is a food supply other than the feeders.

Can these amazing little birds survive snow and temperatures in the 20’s?

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Sherrie says:
December 8, 2016 at 10:34 am

I live on the Canadian border in Washington State. We have hummingbirds that are still here. They are dark green. We are in a cold snap and the feeder freezes so I am heating the nectar up so they can feed in the morning. We leave for Arizona later this month for three months. Our caretaker won’t be heating the nectar. I am afraid the birds will die in this hostile weather. Why are they here??

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rose etta says:
December 10, 2016 at 3:03 pm

Hello! Just found your blog! Started feeding the Hummers four yers ago. They come all winter long Portland Oregon. Put out unfrozen food each morning.

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Roxanne Smith says:
December 15, 2016 at 9:07 am

It’s Dec 15, 2016 in Tappahannock, VA and I still have a hummingbird visiting my feeder every day. Have been trying to keep a steady food source but with periodioic high winds and freezing temps, it will be a challenge.

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Tom Jones says:
December 17, 2016 at 3:11 pm

I live in Bend Or and this is the second year I have had Black Chinned hummers here all year. I have a picture of one on a 0 degree day on a feeder warmer I built. What do I do? All the articles I read tell me not to take the feeders down until they have migrated.

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Andree Dubreuil says:
December 18, 2016 at 10:49 pm

All of you wonderful fans of hummingbirds.. , I, have only seen 2 in my whole life..
Just keep writing,, and if you can post them.. on the Feederwatch…site,, would love to see your pictures…

We ,, had températures of -20 below Celcius.. here.. in Québec,, reading you,, is like an a wonderful vacation..
But,, in the spring and the summer,, I, will definitely need your input.. Is, it true,, that if you have bird feeders..
that humming birds will stay away.. Do you maintain,, a seperate area.. unique to humming bird feeders…???

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Scott says:
January 1, 2017 at 5:12 pm

Scott in Prescott again, the 2 pair still visit our feeders regularly & we’ve had a lot of nights in the 20’s & low 30’s & a snow storm that dropped 10+ inches in 18 hrs. My speculation is that the hummers are finding enough insects to provide protein & supplementing that with feeders in the area.

A suggestion to those of you with feeders that freeze over, increase the ratio of sugar to water (we are at 1 to 1 until it warms up) & that lowers the freezing point of the mixture. Make sure the sugar is thoroughly dissolved or you’ll find rock candy at the bottom of your feeder when you clean it & change solution, although that doesn’t require boiling the water at our elevation. Make sure the solution has cooled before adding it to a plastic feeder or risk melting/deforming the feeder.

Not sure how elevation factors into the equation, we’re at 6’000 ft, but while we’ve had to clear melted snow that became ice from the feeder openings, the solution has not frozen at 20 degrees F.

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Adhum Ming says:
January 7, 2017 at 6:02 am

Hi, everyone! just now looked up this article, well written. Through this, I found the hummers very special one. but i’ve seen 3 in my whole life. after read this article , I’ve decided not to take the feed untill they migrated. Thanks for sharing an interesting article.

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Marti Reynolds says:
January 13, 2017 at 5:02 pm

Marti in Mesa, Az. I think I have a partial albino humming bird in my backyard. He has been here now for 3 weeks. have other hummingbirds too. but first for a white one.

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Melissa says:
January 19, 2017 at 8:23 am

I’m in the Acton,Ca area. We are getting heavy rain now. I always have hummingbirds (maybe 1 to 3)in winter number drops from spring summer. My question is I just went outside to see about something and I looked up and into my wood exposed eves and in the little corner is a hummingbird. It’s all popped up like a puffer fish. I’ve never seen that before is there something I can put out to make some type of winter habitat for them. I’ll move a feeder to this side of the house under the eve. I turn the light off quickly and went back inside not to disturb, so that it wouldn’t fly out into the heavy rain. If I can help make winter less harsh I’d like to help them

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PK says:
February 4, 2017 at 1:52 pm

I live in Richmond, BC, Canada I have 4 or 5 hummingbirds feeding everyday. What a site to see in the winter. It’s been cold enough some nights to freeze the food so I bring it inside for the night and return it to it’s stand in the am.

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andree dubreuil says:
August 18, 2017 at 3:12 am

To all of you, who share humming with the birds.. how Lucky you are to have them.. know.. that, your sweetness
is shared,,, and,, to all,, somehow.. the rain here,, has not been a great year,, many of the flowers.. have just simply wilted,, keep writing,, even if I, am not on social medias.. let your comments.. flow..
and tell me about your humming bird tales, and why and how they inspire you.. but ,, most of all share them..
even the tiny have great tales,, and the great ones, are the ones to tell us all about them..
go for it..
in the meantime.. while you think,, know.. that all of you,, that have feeders,, many sweet thanks..

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Brian Mohl says:
October 14, 2017 at 11:53 am

We had a Ruby Throated Hummingbird overwinter in our neighborhood of Lago Mar in Virginia Beach, VA. I wonder if this is the northernmost location for a Ruby to overwinter?

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Yoedi Buzz says:
January 21, 2018 at 4:30 am

In Indonesia We can’t find hummingbird but we have Sunbird and Honeyeater.

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Danny Wright says:
October 1, 2022 at 9:41 am

Hummingbirds are found in the western hemisphere ONLY.

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Bdb says:
April 13, 2018 at 2:04 pm

I live in North Central Florida. Four days ago around 7:30 pm (still light outside) a dark black-bodied, dark red throated, long-billed hummingbird was feeding at my hummingbird feeder. It looked different from any hummingbirds around here. The body and wings appeared to be a bit larger/wider. It actually looked and acted more like a bat. I thought it looked very hungry and tired because it kept going from the feeder then to the tree branch to rest and then back again. After doing this for a short period of time, it literally it attached itself to the small vertical trunk of the tree near the feeder and flattened its body against the trunk. Through my binoculars I could clearly see its head pointed straight up as it wiped its long black-bill (1.5″) back and forth on the trunk. Its body was so flat against the trunk that it looked like just a black knot on the trunk. I did not get a picture because I wasn’t close enough and I was afraid I would scare it away if I moved closer. It was still attached to the truck when I went into my house about 20 minutes later when it was getting dark. Was this a hummingbird or a bat?

When I looked its description up online, I could not find any information that would suggest it could have been a bat. The only hummingbirds I found that even remotely resembled this bird were a long-billed star-throat hummingbird (which doesn’t come this far north) and a male ruby throated hummingbird. Has anyone ever heard of a hummingbird attaching it’s body tightly to a tree trunk like a bat?

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Kenneth Luck says:
July 27, 2018 at 1:13 pm

had twelve birds three years ago. A neighbor moved in year before last and we have had only two the last two years due to loud parting into the night. Also, a barking St. Bernard. Those people have moved and just wondering if anyone out there has had a problem like this and how long did it take to retrieve a group again /.

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Theresa Byrd says:
October 20, 2018 at 8:41 am

I still have a ruby throated hummingbird as of Ictober 19, 2018 in West Lafayette. Unusual as our fall and winter weather is very unpredictable.

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Darla Eiken says:
November 5, 2018 at 8:36 am

We still have a ruby throated female at our feeder as of November 5, 2018 in central Missouri. This is the latest I have ever recorded.

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Ellen Haberlein says:
November 6, 2018 at 4:01 pm

We have had ruby throated male hummingbirds at our feeder for the past month. Today I saw a ruby throated with an orange/gold throat. I was quite surprised as this is the first time that I have seen this color on the neck. Searching the internet I found that it isn’t common, but they are around and thought to be young non-breeding males. This is the latest that I have seen hummingbirds at my feeder.

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Ellen Haberlein says:
November 9, 2018 at 8:52 am

Here in Falls Church, VA, we still have a ruby throated male at the feeder. He has golden neck feathers instead of ruby. He is immature and the throat feathers, while uncommon, do happen in young ruby throats. This is the latest I have had summers at my feeder.

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Robert perra says:
November 15, 2018 at 6:10 am

Hi Ellen. I’m not too far from you, in Lorton VA. I also have at least one ruby-throated hummingbird at my two feeders…and it’s Nov 15! I’ve never noticed birds at my feeder so late in the year. Guess I’m on the hook for maintaining a winter feeding program.

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June Rettinger says:
November 21, 2018 at 9:25 am

Greetings, I really enjoyed your article as well. I live in Cornville AZ which is about 20 minutes from Sedona. I usually put 2 feeders on my back porch and 2 on my front porch. There are so many hummingbirds in the summer I’m considering more this coming year. In the winter I just keep one on each porch and there’s always a couple around in the winter. I believe they are the Rufus ones because they are all black. We have a Hummingbird Society here in Sedona and they put on an event each year called the Hummingbird Festival. They say that Sedona has the largest varieties of hummingbirds than anywhere during the summer. My question is, in the winter they must be searching for some heat source, would it be helpful to put one of those red heat bulbs by their feeders so they have a place to warm up. Or is there anything that we can create to give them some type of shelter during the winter? Also where do we send pictures to, I don’t see a place here to add a photo?

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
November 21, 2018 at 1:58 pm

Hi June,
Thanks for commenting!
Participants can submit photos to our Participant Photos Gallery. To answer your question, hummingbirds can survive on their own during winter; providing food and heat can be helpful but it is not necessary to their survival. We warn against placing heaters too close to sugar water, as mold can grow in the food and be very harmful to the birds. We recommend changing out sugar water every couple of days in warm weather, so we would recommend the same if a heater was placed near the feeder in the winter. If you have further questions, please email them to us at feederwatch@cornell.edu.

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Magi says:
November 27, 2018 at 1:42 pm

We have a female ruby throat in Maryland near the coast. This is the latest I have ever seen one at my feeder. We have a flood light on the food on days when the temperatures drop below freezing. I have also changed the ratio of sugar from 1-4 to 1-3 on those bitter nights as I have read this helps them survive. Love to hear about others still in the area. November 27, 2018

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Ellen says:
December 8, 2018 at 9:08 am

Hi Magi, We still have a ruby throated hummingbird that comes to our feeder in Falls Church, VA. This morning the sugar water was very slushy as temperature at 7 am was 24 degrees. Changed the sugar water and he is feeding about every 30 minutes. My first experience feeding a hummer during winter.

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Gregg L. Friedman MD says:
March 17, 2019 at 10:04 pm

What is the best time of year to look for ruby throated hummingbirds in South Florida? By Gregg L. Friedman MD

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
March 18, 2019 at 11:49 am

Hi Gregg,
It depends on where you live in South Florida- check out this range map. You can see that in the Keys and along the shores on the tip of the peninsula, the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are only around in winter. Then, they migrate through the inland area between those shores in spring and fall, and will spend the rest of the breeding season farther north in Florida. These specific dates are not always the same, but the seasons act as a good guideline. Let us know if you have further questions at feederwatch@cornell.edu.

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Donna Throckmorton says:
July 15, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Just curious if anyone has seen a Ruby Throat in Ohio in the winter? I wonder why they are moving further north during the winter months. I mean Hummer’s in general. Climate change or habitat destruction?

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Melissa says:
July 24, 2019 at 1:05 am

To all concerned about feeders freezing we purchased a called a Hummers Delight that has a small lightbulb that hooks into the bottom. Think of like a Christmas village lightbulb. A lovely local lady makes them but I know she has a website. We plug that in and it keeps it just defrosted enough that they can drink early in the morning even in the most bitter cold. If they aren’t leaving then I’m not going to give up on them. They will always have food ready in my backyard … cheers!!

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Donna Clouser says:
June 7, 2020 at 1:21 pm

I’ve had hummingbirds for quite a few years and I think the same ones year after year. This year they came back, but the last three weeks they haven’t been around. Any ideas of what might have happened. Have they died off or maybe they were hurt. I noticed they were hitting my window, would that kill them. I also have finch feeders would that keep them from coming back.

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
June 8, 2020 at 10:44 am

Hi Donna, Bird populations fluctuate from on season to the next and from one year to the next. Bird populations are affected most often by habitat changes, predator presence, food availability, and bad weather. Also, this time of year birds are busy nesting, and often more hidden than when they first return from migration. To best way to attract hummingbirds to your yard is to place hummingbird feeders or use native plants in your garden, which provide nectar for the birds, and the plants often foster a healthy insect population for them too. If birds are hitting your widows, please feel free to review this article for tips on how to prevent it from happening.

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terri emerson says:
July 9, 2020 at 9:26 pm

It’s dusk, a hummer was at one of my feeders, I swear there was a white (a very light color) on the back of its neck, like the Ruby Throated sized patch but behind its head. Anybody? I was too amazed to even look for my binos and books. Would appreicate any feedback. Many thanks, Happy Birding

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
July 10, 2020 at 9:02 am

Hi Terri, Abnormally white plumage is due to genetic conditions known as leucism or albinism. You can learn more about these conditions here.

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Nancy Haas says:
September 29, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Today is 9/29/20. I still have one female ruby throated hummingbird hanging around. I live in Lockport, NY. All the others are gone. I am worried about this tiny gal. It is so much later than they’ve migrated in previous years. The latest I’ve recorded previously is 9/21. I’ve been keeping track of their Spring arrival and Fall departure for many years.

I’ve done some reading at the All About Birds website and your blog here. Is this not so unusual for a hummingbird to still be around?

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
September 30, 2020 at 3:48 pm

Hi Nancy, Migration is still in full swing – Ruby-throated Hummingbirds migrate from early August all the way through November, so this sounds quite normal! Keep your feeders up to give them an extra boost of energy on their trip south.

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Nancy Haas says:
September 30, 2020 at 6:48 pm

Thanks for that info. I feel much better about the little gal still hanging around. AND I learned from the AllAboutBirds site that males tend to migrate earlier, in August. So that probably explains why I stopped seeing the one male at the end of August. I had assumed he was chased off his territory by the three females. He has been guarding his territory in my backyard every summer since at least 2012.

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Sophie LeGolvan says:
October 1, 2020 at 5:01 pm

We moved to Kernersville, NC, from Rhode Island last winter, so this was our first summer here. We started with one female ruby-throated hummingbird and ended up with quite a few by the end of summer. I’m fairly certain that our resident hummers left in early September. Ever since then, however, we have had a steady stream of migrants coming through. I’ve done a fair amount of research online, but haven’t been able to find out how long they typically stay at a stop during their migration? Do they stay a few days, rest, and refuel, or do they tend to stay for a bit longer? During the summer with my resident hummers, I was able to tell most of them apart after studying their behavior and habits over the course of weeks. With the migrants, the time doesn’t permit to distinguish them. Thank you in advance for any help with my question. My husband, toddler daughter, and I have all become avid fans of these glorious birds. Of course, we love our songbirds too!

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
October 2, 2020 at 9:13 am

Hi Sophie, Migrant stopover time varies considerably depending on factors such as weather patterns and temperature, energy levels and food availability, as well as habitat and other environmental conditions. For example, a bird may be exhausted either because it is nearing the end of its journey, or because it just flew through a strong storm, and it will likely land to regain its energy and take some time to recover. A bird that may be avoiding bad weather, or is landing to fuel up before crossing something like one of the Great Lakes will probably only briefly stay depending on when more favorable conditions arise. So, in short, length of stopover time is difficult to predict as it really depends on the individual bird and its experiences. I hope this helps!

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Sophie LeGolvan says:
October 2, 2020 at 9:59 am

Yes, that makes perfect sense and is very helpful. Thank you so much!

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David and Cheryl Nemanich says:
October 13, 2020 at 11:39 pm

We have a resident female ruby throated that we have seen daily for at least 3 months. She feeds on the lime sizzler red flowers and a feeder. She stands guard and chase away all newcomers.

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Barbara R says:
January 1, 2021 at 10:59 am

I live in coastal NC in Wilmington. I have a female Ruby Throated returning to my 2 feeders daily. I believe it is the same one, but of course I have no way of knowing since I have not seen more than one at a time or cannot tell if there are different ones passing through. We have had temps in the 20s a few nights but some days get as high as the 70s. The hummer(s) has to share the sugar water with the orioles who overwinter here, but there is plenty for all. Some of my smaller residents like our Carolina Chickadees also enjoy sips from the feeder. After reading about hummers that are surviving winters in places far north of NC I guess I will stop worrying about any I have here. Will just enjoy them and make sure to keep my feeders filled and thawed if we have a hard freeze!

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Carol P. says:
February 14, 2021 at 4:24 pm

I live in Austin, Texas. We usually have ruby throats at our feeder from March – November. One year I had a Rufus who wintered over at our feeder. This year, I have two birds wintering over. One must be a juvenile Ruby – his chest is golden. The other is smaller with a white chest. I noticed the ruby and other bird were being territorial, so I put out a second feeder. I have not changed from the 1:4 ratio, though reading through previous posts, should I be feeding a richer solution? From my experience with the Rufus, I know they can survive single digit (F) temps, but we are in for a rare, colder than normal, longer lasting spell of ice and snow, so I am concerned.

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Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
February 15, 2021 at 8:38 am

Hi Carol, The ideal ratio is usually 1/4 cup of sugar per 1 cup of water; your mixture should never be stronger than that during hot, dry weather. However, during cold or rainy weather, you can make it stronger, using up to 1/3 cup of sugar per 1 cup of water. As for the species you’re seeing, it’s possible you’re seeing an Allen’s Hummingbird – juvenile Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have no, or only part of a gorget, and a pale white-green breast and belly. Juvenile Rufous Hummingbirds and Allen’s Hummingbirds are more of a yellow-brown color. Click on these links to see photos of each species, and view a list of North American Hummingbirds here.

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Katie S Dotson says:
July 23, 2021 at 9:16 am

I’m in N.E. Georgia and I’m seeing hummingbirds well into late fall/early winter when in past years they would have been gone. Keeping feeders up and supplied is no problem, but can anyone tell me if there is a way to build a winter habitat? Ideally a shelter for them for very cold days and a safe place at night.

Thanks, Katie

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Anissa Bejaoui says:
September 29, 2021 at 7:30 am

Hi there,
My concerns are similar to Katie’s above. I live in NY State about 100 miles of NYC and am seeing hummingbirds much later in the season – but very few. Is this an increasing trend? Naturally, I worry about the chances of survival here as we creep towards October and temperatures are dropping.

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Holly Grant, Project Assistant says:
September 29, 2021 at 9:13 am

Hi Anissa, Birds begin migration based on daylight hours, and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in particular migrate from early August through to the end of November. It’s normal for some individuals to vary the exact timing of when they visit certain locations along their route due to local conditions, such as food availability and weather. For example, if the birds aren’t getting enough food in their starting location to migrate or hit major storms, they’ll need to stop sooner for a fuel-up where they might have otherwise flown over that location. Bird populations also normally fluctuate from one season to the next and from one year to the next. All-in-all, I would not worry about seeing hummingbirds in New York this time of year.

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Jerry Welch says:
October 27, 2021 at 12:05 am

I’m in Oklahoma and it happening quite regularly here. Every year we hear of at least a few hummers staying throughout the winter. It’s amazing how tough these little guy can be.

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Danny Wright says:
October 1, 2022 at 9:24 am

All (about 10) Hummingbirds have left for the winter. Except one. I’m worried about her. I live in NE Iowa where winter temperatures can drop to below zero. Why hasn’t she gone south yet?We still keep nectar out for her. New every 2 days. She won’t stay all winter will she?

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Danny Wright says:
October 7, 2022 at 8:22 am

We’re pretty sure she’s gone. Last sighting was October 5th. Feeders still up for a couple of weeks.

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Danny Wright says:
October 7, 2022 at 8:25 am

It’s 7:23am and I just saw her again. We really enjoy this but we want her to go south.
Maybe these are just migrating Hummingbirds stopping for some energy.

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Danny Wright says:
October 7, 2022 at 8:28 am

Oct. 7th and 39 degrees when I saw this hummingbird!!!

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Arnold Wratschko says:
October 31, 2022 at 3:37 pm

I live in Reno. NV. 4600 ft. The first time I left it out this late! I got still 3 Birds hanging around .1 bigger and 2 smaller one. Temperature some time to 28 F. Okt.31/22 I got them a headed feeder !

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Betty Caldwell says:
November 18, 2022 at 3:10 pm

A female Ruby-Throated Hummingbird has been visiting my feeder for over a week now (Nov 18th). I live in SE Virginia and normally do not see hummingbirds after Oct 5th or 6th. This is unusual for this area.

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Nadia says:
December 16, 2022 at 1:39 pm

Today is December16 in Montgomery co. Virginia, NRV mountain region. I am desperately trying to keep one little straggler alive . l have bought nectar warmer, she comes every day…l have made shelter nest, put it under far end of porch overhang hoping she’ll take it to shelter herself. Trees are barren, no leaves to shelter her…l pray to God to keep her alive. If there is someone out there with some helpful idea, please let me know ….

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Heidi Faulkner, Project Assistant says:
December 19, 2022 at 4:14 pm

Hello Nadia, thank you for reaching out! Only veterinarians or federally licensed wildlife rehabilitators can legally treat wild birds. If you see a bird that appears to be compromised in some way, perhaps due to sickness or injury, do not try to care for the bird yourself. It is illegal for you to possess most wild birds unless you are under the direction of someone licensed for their care. While not ideal, diseases in birds are quite common. Whenever a sick bird comes to your feeder, we recommend that you remove the feeders the sick bird is using for a couple of weeks to ensure that disease is not being spread at your feeders and to give birds a chance to disperse. While the feeders are down clean your feeders and feeder area thoroughly. Please feel free to visit our page on Sick Birds and Bird Diseases for more info.

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Cinna says:
February 3, 2023 at 6:06 pm

This winter I’ve noticed I have my resident female Bizzy hanging around. I’ve normally picked up feeders in November or December because I don’t usually see any hummingbirds. I just assumed they all migrated. This year I forgot to take them down and around the new year I happened to be sitting outside and one flew up to me, chirped and flew to feeder for a couple seconds and then flew off. I immediately went and put fresh nectar out. It’s been in the 30’s and she’s still hanging around. So I now I know to make sure I have nectar out all year round. I changed solution for winter 3:1 I just wonder how many others are around. I ideally have 5 or so feeders. Hummingbirds are the cutest little birds.

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Elaine says:
March 15, 2023 at 1:01 pm

We have lived in Manteo, North Carolina (part of the Outer Banks) since 2020. During the summer we have so many hummingbirds we have to replenish all 5 feeders every couple of days. They’re usually gone by late October. Around mid November our winter hummingbirds arrive! This year we had about 6, both male and female. They survived a several day cold snap where the temperatures dipped into the low 20’s. It’s now mid March and the wintering hummingbirds have left. We expect our spring arrivals in another week or so. This migration pattern is absolutely fascinating!

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David A Beckenbaugh says:
February 4, 2025 at 8:23 pm

My hypothesis is that, with more and more people leaving feeders out all winter long, more are staying in the north. Here in WA state, when I was a child (55 years ago), I NEVER saw a hummingbird in the winter time. I have two hummingbirds at my feeder full time, this winter, a male and a female. A third occasionally jets in, but I have not got a good enough look to see m or f. I do not know what kind it is, but I know it is not an ‘Anna’s. Can’t post a pic so…….

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