Big Numbers
From Texas to Canada, observers noted seeing more hummingbirds this year than ever before as they progressed toward the Gulf Coast on their long journey south. "At least 50 hummingbirds at one time, and at least one-third mature males" were counted at one Mississippi locale. In South Carolina, another observers was "off to make MORE Hummingbird food; they emptied the feeder AGAIN!" As the migration's leading edge of mature males passes through, Scott in Texas summed up the trend:

“Still crazy here (September 7). Over 100 hummers! I'm seeing about 30-40% male and 60-70% female/juveniles."

"Well it had to happen: Most of the hummers have gone. Last week I had over 100 total and now I estimate 25 total, with 10 males and the rest female/juveniles. Watch out Houston and south, they are coming!"

Scott in Huntsville, Texas (September 7 and 11, 2013)

Many Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at feeder
Photo: Scott Brega