Hummingbird Migration: Citizen Scientists Track Hummingbird Migration with Journey North

Hummingbirds

Migration News: April 1, 2016
By Mary Hosier

As temperatures warm and plants come into bloom, migrating hummingbirds are fueling up on nectar and insects.

rufous in pollen
Ruby-throat female nectaring on coral honeysuckle Joan Garvey

Leading Edge 36°N

Ruby-throats made progress north this week with the leading edge of the migration now at 36°N. With storms and rain the next few days for the eastern half of the US, birds will be holed up and looking for flowers and feeders. Be ready for them.

"About 4pm I saw my first hummingbird of the year feeding on coral honeysuckle." reported Mike from Pfaffville, South Carolina on March 29th.

"Saw the first one this season- not much color but chattering in our tree. I put out the feeder!" exclaimed Janet from Tracy's Landing, Maryland. (03/29/16)

Rufous Reach Alaska!
Rufous hummingbird migration has reached 58°N. Sightings have been reported from Hoonah, Juneau, and Craig, Alaska.

"My first male Rufous was seen here this morning," Molly reported from Juneau on March 30.

Other Western Species

"Just saw the first hummingbird of the year -- a male Black-chinned working over the Indian Paintbrush flowers," observed Janelle from Aledo, Texas.
03/28/16

Flower Nectar

Feathers

Feisty Rufous

Explore: The Hummingbird Tongue

How does the hummingbird's unique tongue get liquid to its mouth? This video shows the process in slow motion and reveals how the tongue works as a fluid trap.

Report Your Sightings


What to Report	Ruby-throated map \| animation \| sightings	Rufous map \| animation \| sightings

Other Species map \| animation \| sightings	Other Observations map \| list	Nectaring map \| list

Next Update April 8, 2016