Attracting Hummingbirds

Lesson 2: KEEPING BOTH YOU AND YOUR HUMMERS HAPPY

HUMMINGBIRD MIGRATION

The majority of hummingbirds exist in Central and South America – over 300 species compared to less than 20 in North America. But North Americans cherish their beautiful representatives from the hummingbird family!

While most Central and South American species do not migrate, only two species in North America do not migrate – the Anna’s hummingbird and the Allen’s hummingbird. Scientists estimate that more than five billion hummingbirds migrate annually. Those that travel especially long distances – the Ruby-throated hummingbird and the Rufous hummingbird – gorge for several days prior to starting their journeys, almost doubling their weight. With body fat stored for travel, they can fly at a height of 10,000 feet and for 500 miles at a time without eating or sleeping. Ruby-throated hummingbirds may travel 2,000 miles every year, while Rufous hummingbirds travel as much as 5,000 miles per year. It's believed that tailwinds help the birds make the long trip.

Just as nearly all of a hummingbird’s life is lived alone, they also migrate alone. Scientists have yet to determine how the birds know how to migrate. Many other species are taught the direction to travel by their flock. A newborn hummingbird must find its way instinctually without the help of others of its kind.

Studying hummingbirds is very difficult for ornithologists, as only a few birds can be caught in mist nets and banded every year. Many of those banded are never seen again, making study of their migration habits and health even more difficult.

Male migratory hummingbirds arrive first to their spring and winter territories. Scientists believe they stake out good feeding and nesting areas prior to the arrival of the females. Then, the males depart spring territories a couple of weeks early, which leaves more food for the young growing hummers prior to their first long journey southward.

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