Spring Migration Is Here

Stay vigilant for hummingbirds during spring migration and report your observations. Explore Journey North maps to learn where hummingbirds are being observed.  

What to Report

1. Spring First-to-Arrive 

Let us know when you see your first spring hummingbirds arrive to your area. Using your best judgement, these first spring arrivals should be migrants from non-breeding areas and not reports of resident hummingbirds.  

—> If you observe either a first spring Ruby-throated or a Rufous Hummingbird migrant, please report using either these reporting categories: 

• Hummingbird, Ruby-throat (FIRST)

• Hummingbird, Ruby-throat (FIRST)

—> For first observations of Anna’s, Broad-Tailed, Black-chinned, Calliope, and Costa’s Hummingbirds, please use report category:

• Hummingbird, Other Species Sighted *

*In your comments, please note species name (Anna’s, Broad-tailed, Black-chinned, Calliope, and Costa’s) and female/male if known. Also, please note that the report is a first spring arrival observation.

Try to catch the vibrant orange, red, and green colors of the hummingbirds with your cameras and smartphones. These photos provide a voucher for your observation.

2. All other observations 

You should only report one first spring arrival for each hummingbird species observed. All other observations, including observations of resident hummingbirds, should be reported using these two reporting categories:

• Hummingbird Sighting

• Hummingbird, Other Species Sighted

If you know the species name, please report this information in the comment section. Try to take a picture of the hummingbird(s) with your camera and smartphone. Photos provide a voucher for your observation.

3. Nectar Sources Along Migration Trail

As hummingbirds travel north, they must find places to rest and refuel along the way. Make sure to plant nectar-rich plants and keep your feeders clean. Tell us about the natural sources of nectar hummingbirds are finding at your location and how late into the season they are available. Photos welcome. Please use this reporting category: 

• Hummingbird, Nectaring From Flowers

4. Interesting Behaviors

As hummingbirds travel north, they may exhibit interesting behaviors. Tell us what you are observing using the reporting category:

• Hummingbird, Other Observations

And don’t forget to submit photos and species names if known.