How Fat They Became
Hummingbirds can double their weight as they prepare to migrate. This fall, people watched some became butterballs right before their eyes.

"One female at the kitchen window feeder. Her pot belly is getting bigger and bigger, so she'll be leaving soon, I expect."

"Our lone female was very fat. She would nectar, fly to a tree, rest, and then return to eat more.

"Only one, very fat female at our feeder. She seems very happy to have the feeder to herself, camping out on it for long leisurely drinks. She'd better leave soon, though, before she's too fat to fly!" a Maryland observer wrote on September 17th. Twelve days later the hummer had finally flown.

Hungry Families Left Behind
Don't misjudge the male hummingbird as a poor father for leaving early. After he was gone, the mothers and juveniles were able to feed with less competition. This is a benefit of a staggered migration, especially as food becomes scarce in the fall.

"Only one lone hummer at the feeders throughout the day."

"Although they are combative with each other in the air, they will feed together at the same feeder. They spend most of the day at the feeders, consuming lots of 'hummer juice'!"

"A lone bird spent much time just sitting on a low- hanging branch above the feeders. He fed at the same spot all day."

Going, Going, Going—but Gone?
As hummer numbers dwindle, sightings are fewer and farther between. Some people are reporting evidence of hummingbirds they don't even see!

"I'm not 'seeing' the hummingbirds, but the feeders are obviously being used."

"Several times I have noticed the feeder swinging as though a bird had just flown away."

"I never saw it, but I know I heard it. I'm going to miss that familiar hummmmmmmmmm."

Male or Female?
Most people can't distinguish female ruby-throated hummingbirds from juvenile males and females. They all look alike! However, as the plumage of the young males matures in the fall, some begin to show tell-tale signs. Look carefully at these images for clues.