Waiting for Arrivals
Spring migration is a challenging time for hummingbirds. Temperature, wind patterns, and storms can influence the pace of migration. Activity should increase over the coming weeks. Report your first hummingbird observations of the season to Journey North.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
Ruby-throated Hummingbird reports are beginning to trickle in from the Gulf Coast. Migratory activity should steadily increase over the coming weeks in this region. As a reminder, please share if you think you’ve observed a migrating hummingbird or a winter resident. And if you’re uncertain, please let us know.
Schriever, LA: “Had one all winter. But hadn’t seen him for a few days until yesterday.” (03/01/2022)
John in Prairieville, LA: “First male Ruby-throat this year at feeder. Was not able to get pic.” (03/06/2022)
Jerry in Galveston, TX: “one male at 2:03 pm 03/06/2022 . He has been visiting or scouting for the past hour and has made six trips to the 7th floor feeder. No hummers at the court yard feeder yet. Spring migration passing through Galveston, TX. Oh happy days!” (03/06/2022)
Rufous Hummingbirds
Rufous Hummingbird spring migration is off to a strong start. From California to Washington, Rufous are making their way up the Pacific Coast. This species breeding range extends as far north as Alaska!
Richard in Gig Harbor, WA: “First male Rufous to feeder at 12:45 PM. Beautiful, showed even after 5 days and 5” of rain. Welcome Spring.” (03/02/2022)
Jackie in Jacumba Hot Springs, CA: “Looked like male juvenile having big breakfast at feeder this morning. All-green back, rufous on sides, rufous patch center of throat. I’ve been away a lot - they may have started coming through sooner. Several are keeping the feeders busy this morning.” (03/05/2022)
Dawn in Apple Valley, CA: “I saw him yesterday 3/5/22 but didn’t get the pic until today.” (03/06/2022)
Other Species and Observations
Black-chinned Hummingbirds are leaving overwintering grounds in Mexico and arriving to the southern portion of their breeding range in Texas.
Donna in Del Rio, TX: “One Black-chinned Hummingbird at feeder.” (03/04/2022)
Cindy in Devine, TX: “Spotted 2 Black-Chinned.” (03/06/2022)
Put Your Feeders and Planters Out
Did you know that migrating hummingbirds often return to the same feeders and nectaring plants each year? If you live in an area where you observe early arrivals, it is time to put your feeders and potted nectar plants out to provide energy for migrating hummingbirds. And depending on your location, start planting brightly-colored native flowers to provide pollinator habitat for hummingbirds and other species such as monarch butterflies.
