Every year, millions of hummingbirds make an incredible journey north from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. The timing varies by species and geography, but the pattern is remarkably consistent.
When They Arrive
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds — the most common species east of the Mississippi — typically begin crossing the Gulf of Mexico in late February. By March, they're reaching the Gulf Coast states. By April, they've spread across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. And by May, they've reached the northern United States and southern Canada.
State-by-State Timeline
The exact timing depends on weather patterns, but here's a general guide based on historical sighting data:
- February–March: Texas, Louisiana, Florida, southern coastal states
- March–April: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, the Carolinas, Tennessee
- April–May: Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma
- May: Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, New England, Upper Midwest
Getting Your Feeders Ready
The best practice is to have your feeders out about two weeks before the expected arrival date for your area. Early migrants — often males scouting for territories — arrive first and will remember reliable food sources.
Make sure your nectar is fresh, your feeder is clean, and you're using the right ratio: one part sugar to four parts water. No dye, no additives. Just pure, simple nectar.
