February Thaw: Tracking Hummingbird Movement As Spring Approaches
It is mid-February. Is the first flush of spring migration just around the corner or still weeks away? There are a few reports of winter resident hummingbirds from the southern U.S. Many of us are still waiting for the return of hummingbirds after a long winter.
Late Winter Weather
From atmospheric rivers sweeping the west to freezing temperatures gripping the south and an unseasonable warm snap in the mid-west, the weather patterns across the United States have been nothing short of erratic. Amidst this meteorological rollercoaster, one can’t help but wonder: how are migratory birds, particularly delicate hummingbirds, navigating this weather whiplash?
If you reside in an area frequented by overwintering hummingbirds or have spotted early migratory arrivals, we invite you to contribute your observations to Journey North. Additionally, remember to set out your feeders; during cold spells, these feeders provide vital nourishment to sustain hummingbirds through challenging conditions.
In the sunny climes of Southern California, Susie’s garden has been a haven for three tiny avian visitors. Among them, a solitary Rufous and two Anna’s hummingbirds have claimed dominion over the vibrant blooms. Susie, wise to their territorial nature, strategically places four feeders throughout her garden, ensuring there’s no squabble over nectar sources. But it’s not just the feeders that draw them in; the water in her fountain serves as a communal bath, where the hummingbirds dip in several times a week, their iridescent feathers shimmering in the California sun.
Susie in Orange, CA: “I have had 3 hummingbirds in my garden all winter so far. 1 Rufous and 2 Anna’s. I have 4 feeders up around the garden because they are very territorial. They are all doing well through our southern California winter. They bathe in our fountain several times a week.” (01/26/2024)
Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, April’s backyard in Everett, Washington, stands as a sanctuary against the biting cold. As an Arctic blast sweeps through the region, three hardy Anna’s hummingbirds brave the elements, their aerial dances a testament to their resilience. Despite the freezing temperatures, April diligently tends to their needs, replacing frozen nectar in the feeder multiple times a day. And as if to express their gratitude, the hummingbirds occasionally hover by the window, perhaps as a silent plea for a refill. This behavior serves as a reminder of our role as stewards of the land, emphasizing our responsibility to nurture and care for both our gardens and the creatures that inhabit them.
April in Everett, WA: “A resident male Anna’s perches on the edge of outdoor grill guarding feeder against two rivals. With the artic blast sweeping through the PNW this week, I’ve been replacing the frozen nectar at least twice a day to help supplement the hummingbirds diet. Every know and then, they hover at the window let me know they need a refill.” (01/12/2024)
Louisiana brings unique sightings: Diana in Schriever enjoys the brief visits of a solitary Green-breasted mango hummingbird. This emerald beauty graces her garden in the early hours, a rare delight. In New Orleans, Seth spots a female ruby-throated hummingbird, drawn to the coral honeysuckle and shrimp plant. These sightings offer glimpses of hummingbird action along coastal Louisiana.”
Diana in Schriever, LA: “Down in the bayou country of Louisiana, Diana’s mornings in Schriever are greeted by the ephemeral presence of a solitary, Green-breasted mango hummingbird. This emerald jewel graces Diana’s garden in the early mornings, a rare and cherished sight amidst the backdrop of her surroundings. The Green-breasted hummingbird is only being seen between 630-7:00 a.m. Have been seeing her since Dec. 5th but not every day.” (01/27/2024)
Seth in New Orleans, LA: “This female ruby-throated hummingbird first appeared 28 January 2024 in our yard, nectaring from coral honeysuckle and shrimp plant in containers next to our house which had been protected from the freezes of 16, 17, 20, and 21 January 2024. It also used feeders, as have the other 2 hummingbirds in our yard this month. Also present was at least the second immature male black-chinned hummingbird who was first observed in our yard 21 January 2024.” (01/28/2024)
Meanwhile, in the Lone Star State, Rufous and Ruby-throated hummingbird observations are slowly increasing. Journey North hummingbird stewards tended to feeders during the cold snap. Other observers tended gardens. These actions are reminders that even in the heart of the cities, it is critical to create hummingbird-friendly habitats.
Michelle in Brownsville, TX: “It is 27 degrees outside and a ruby showed up to drink warm sugar water!” (01/16/2024)
Clara in Angleton, TX: “Male Rufous let me get super close to him one morning. He was guarding a porter weed bush in my backyard.” (01/17/2024)
Kenneth in Willis, TX: ”Spotted first Ruby at the bedroom feeder. What is interesting is that ~12 years ago I saw one on the same date hovering where the feeder normally hangs. He remembered its location from the Fall. We now keep feeders up all year due to the fact that the Rufous come just after Thanksgiving. We currently have a full blown male Rufous still hanging out with us. I’m certain he will depart for the northwest soon.” (02/07/2024)
Marion in Pasadena, TX: “1 ruby red male feeding on feeder in my backyard. I usually maintain 1 feeder throughout the year, cause one never knows when 1 of these cuties may show up around here.” (02/11/2024)
Beverly in Houston, TX: “A Rufous hummingbird just comes in around at 7 a.m. on a routine basis. Then I saw him nectaring from loaded Meyer lemon tree blossoms at 8 a.m. Thanks to my friend Joey who relayed Meyer lemons and lime trees bloom in winter to help with Rufous. 45 degrees this morning.” (02/14/2024)
Finally, in the Carolinas and into Virginia, observers are reporting hummingbirds. Are these resident hummingbirds or early spring arrivals?
Sue in Virginia Beach, VA: “At 1:30 PM saw a male ruby-throated hummer on blooms of Mahonia shrub. 2 PM saw hummer feeding on different Mahonia shrub for a couple of minutes. Normally see the first hummer the first week of April. Have previously had hummers spend the whole winter with us.” (02/13/2024)
From the Pacific Northwest to Southern California, and the shores of the Gulf of Mexico to the coastal mid-Atlantic, these observational reports showcase the resilience and connection between humans and hummingbirds.
Your hummingbird observations contribute to our understanding of their behavior and migration patterns. Please consider reporting your sightings to Journey North and join us in fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
