Arkansas Storm Team Blog: Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate south for the winter

From August to October, ruby-throated hummingbirds follow their food source south for the winter. Nectar from flowers becomes hard to find across much of the Continental United States in the winter, so when the days start to become shorter (by daylight hours compared to hours in darkness) and cooler air begins to move in, the hummingbirds head towards Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. This journey begins in August and lasts through October.

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Many hummingbirds will have already traveled beyond the Continental U.S. by mid-October, but a few stragglers are possible through the end of October that may still be making the journey. The above map is a rough estimate of when to expect hummingbirds to make their migration to their overwintering spots. West of the Rockies, any ruby-throated hummingbirds will head south, too. Some may overwinter in parts of California, though, just as some hummingbirds may overwinter in parts of Florida, Texas, and other spots along the Gulf Coast.

As hummingbirds make this long and hard trek south for the winter, they need a lot of energy. They stock up on nectar to be able to travel long distances, but will need more nectar throughout the migration. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep hummingbird feeders full and clean through the end of October. A few water sources left out for the hummingbirds, like a mister, will be helpful for their journey, too. It’s also recommended to keep outdoor lights off at night so the hummingbirds don’t become confused about their route south.