Hummingbird Advance Continues
Now at the 44th Parallel North!
Farther North Every Day
With each passing day this week the migration advanced steadily. Northern line of migration is now at the 44th parallel north for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (from Northfield, Minnesota to Suamico, Wisconsin through Manistee, Michigan, Huron-Kinloss, Ontario and Jefferson, Maine). Rufous Hummingbirds continue to migrate northward to their breeding grounds. Journey North observers are seeing some courtship behavior.
Eastern Species — Ruby-throated Hummingbird Update
From Mississauga, ON: Glenna observed, “With the cold, wet spring that we have experienced this year I was shocked to see our first male of 2019. We had a heavy downpour around 6pm and the first visit was at 6:42pm. It was still raining and he spent a full 5 minutes on the feeder. I was certainly glad I had the feeder out, even though I didn’t expect to see any hummingbirds this early. He was back 5 more times before dark.” (05/01/2019)
From Bohemia, NY: Michael reported, “Of the two pair of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that share my front and back yard, this is the second Male to arrive…He dominates the front yard feeder ! As the other male dominates the rear yard feeder. Welcome Home!” (05/01/2019)
From Euclid, OH: John commented, “This year’s sighting was a few days earlier than usual. I saw him at one of the feeders. The only plants blooming at the moment are eight Fire Pinks in Containers, two Clove Currants, one Scarlet Currant and one Pink Currant. Also have a collection of hanging baskets with Lobelia and Snapdragons.” (04/29/2019)
Western Species — Rufous, Broad-tailed and Calliope Hummingbird Update
From Boise, ID: Steven noted, “Unusual to see a male Rufous in the spring. He showed up and chased away some Calliope hummers that have been hanging around for the last week or so. This Rufous must have continued on his migration since I haven’t seen him for a couple days.” (04/26/2019)
From Elizabeth, CO: Angela recorded, “A second Broad-tailed male is now visiting my feeder. He’s been here since Friday, April 19th. Feeding on nectar when needed. Haven’t seen my first one. I believe he was moving through. We’re expecting snow tomorrow. I will be changing feeders out, to keep nectar from freezing.” (04/28/2019)
A Few Sightings of Courtship and Nectaring Behavior
From Osoyoos, BC: Dr Paul observed, “First 2019 courtship display today for Calliope Hummingbirds. A female sat at the top of a 15 ft tree, while the male did his hovering at about 90 ft, then diving in an arc close to the female, with his tail feathers giving the characteristic “bzzzt” at the bottom of the dive. Repeated several times.” (04/23/2019)
