Shifting Focus

Ruby-throated, Rufous, and Other Hummingbird Species

Reports of “first” observations are slowing in tandem with the spring migration. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are reaching the northern limits of their breeding range throughout Canada.

Cloe in Fredericton, NB: “1 male just before sunset. It was very cold and windy. I saw him several times but it was really difficult to get a good photo.” (05/19/2023)

Ellen in Orillia, ON: “Male hummingbird flew up to my window looking for feeder” (05/24/2023)

Rufous hummingbirds are being spotted at the eastern edge of their breeding range in Wyoming, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Lynn in Cody, WY: “Feeding on my geranium. Early for this area.” (05/18/2023)

Journey North observers help track six other species of migratory hummingbirds, including Allen’s, Anna’s, Broad-tailed, Black-chinned, Calliope, and Costa’s hummingbirds. Please let us know if you are observing these birds, too.

Other Observations

As summer approaches, if you notice territorial behavior or find hummingbird nests, please report these observations under Hummingbird, Other Observations.

Janet in Wanaque, NJ: “2 females, 1 male. Females visited feeders to tank up for the night. The male tried his courtship flight but the ladies were more interested in dinner. The male shared the feeder with one female. ” (05/23/2023)

Nan in Bristol, ME: “I saw at least two Rubies at the same time this evening… they were madly zooming around the feeders, only to stop that to engage in courtship flights…” (05/23/2023)

And if you see hummingbirds feeding on flowers, please report these observations under Hummingbird, Nectaring from Flowers. If you know plant names, submit this information in the comment section.

Amy in Newburgh, IN: “…This Male Ruby is on the Golden Bells Cuphea. The female was a quick visit to the feeder then the flowers and off she went.” (05/19/2023)

Marjorie in Lowell Township, MI: “Male Ruby-throated hummingbird on the rockin’ purple salvia… Purple is always preferred.” (05/21/2023)

Call to Action — Please Report your Observations

Observational reports submitted to Journey North by our volunteers help foster an understanding and awareness of hummingbird migration across North America. Your contributions are greatly appreciated in this effort!

Please continue to report your Ruby-throated, Rufous, Allen’s, Anna’s, Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, Calliope, and Costa’s observations to Journey North. Don’t forget to include photos and the names of the hummingbird species whenever possible, as well as any other details about your observation such as sex (female, male, or mixed group); age (juvenile, adult, or mixed age group); and behaviors (flying, perching, feeding on insects, nectaring from specific flowers species, feeding from bird feeder, mating, nesting, defending territory).

Thank you!