Although there are other hummingbirds spotted in Wisconsin, the RUBY-THROATED is the most common in Wisconsin’s Northern region. These amazing little birds usually arrive in late April into mid-May, and their departing time can change depending on a few factors. Those circumstances are availability of food; the amount of daylight hours and weather patterns. These three components all influence the timing of hummingbirds fall migration.

First, hummingbird’s favorite flowers are mostly tubular and come fall these typically die off. This is when they will turn to other flowers for their source of nectar until those die off for the year. This is when hummingbird feeders are the most important and you might see additional birds fighting for that sugar water outside of your window.

Second, when there are less hours of day light the Hummingbird’s internal clocks responds and this triggers a hormonal change and they know it’s time to prepare for their long flight south. This reaction to shorter days, ensures them they have enough time to reach their winter homes.

Third, is the change in weather. Hummingbirds need food during their migration and will stop daily to rest and replace the energy used. They know when flying south that climate is favorable and there will be nectar and insects which is essential to refuel along the way.

There are basically 4 stages of the hummingbird migration. The 1st stage, Typically the older hummingbirds will leave first. Those are followed by the adult males so the male can find and claim territories for the best breeding location. This happens around the end of August. The 2nd stage normally won’t be until the second week in September when the females (picture inserted) follow the males.

Then the 3rd stage will be the late migraters passing through Wisconsin from regions north of us in late September. The last stage could extend into early October and those are all juvenile hummingbirds. This delayed travel allows the young hummingbirds to build the strength needed for the long flight south.

So, the big question is, when should you remove your hummingbird feeders? In order to support the local hummers and the migrating ones from the northern regions, when you do not see hummingbirds on your feeders or the nectar hasn’t gone down, wait one week before removing them.

Here’s a few facts you might find interesting about the Ruby-Throated hummingbirds that is the most common to Northern Wisconsin. Unlike other migrating birds, hummingbirds fly alone. Ruby-Throated winter in Central Mexico while others winter in Northern Panama. Depending on weather conditions they may encounter along the way, they can fly 25 to 40 miles per day before resting and eating to restore their spent energy. But hummingbirds have flown up to 500 miles in one day without stopping over open water (Gulf of Mexico) and their journey can take up to 8 weeks.