Michigan is home to the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the only species of hummingbird that breeds in the state. These small birds with their shimmering green feathers and bright red throats bring a touch of magic to Michigan. In this article, we will explore the world of Michigan’s hummingbirds, from their migration and arrival to tips for attracting and supporting them in your backyard.
Migration and Arrival: When to Expect Hummingbirds in Michigan
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds spend their winters in Central America and migrate to North America for the breeding season, which typically begins in late April or early May. In Michigan, these birds are first spotted in the southern part of the state, and by mid-May, they can be found throughout Michigan.
Feeding and Nesting: The Intricate Lives of Michigan’s Hummingbirds
During the breeding season, Michigan’s Ruby-throated Hummingbirds feed on nectar, insects, and spiders. They consume large amounts of nectar to fuel their high metabolism, allowing them to maintain their rapid wing beats and agility. In addition to nectar, they also rely on small insects and spiders for essential proteins and nutrients.
These hummingbirds build tiny cup-shaped nests using plant materials and spider silk. The female lays two tiny white eggs, and incubation lasts for about two weeks. Once the young hatch, the female feeds them a mixture of nectar and insects. The chicks fledge in about three weeks, and the female continues to feed them for several days after they leave the nest.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Garden: Tips for Creating a Hummingbird Haven
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden in Michigan, here are some tips:
- Plant a hummingbird-friendly garden: Choose bright, tubular flowers that produce ample nectar. Native plants like red columbine, trumpet honeysuckle, and bee balm are excellent options. Including a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times will provide a continuous food source.
- Provide a water source: Hummingbirds need fresh water to drink and bathe. Consider adding a shallow birdbath or a small fountain with a gentle spray to your garden.
- Offer supplemental food: You can supplement their natural food sources by providing a hummingbird feeder filled with a nectar solution. A simple homemade nectar solution can be made by mixing one part white granulated sugar with four parts water. Avoid using red food coloring or honey, as these can be harmful to the birds.
- Minimize pesticide use: Insecticides can reduce the availability of insects, which are an important food source for hummingbirds. Try using more natural methods to control pests in your garden.
- Provide perching spots: Hummingbirds like to rest and survey their territory from perches. Consider providing small branches or installing a thin hummingbird swing for them to rest and preen.
Heading South: The End of the Season
By late August and September, Michigan’s Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their journey back to Central America for the winter. As daylight hours decrease and temperatures drop, the birds sense that it’s time to migrate. It’s crucial to keep your feeders and flowering plants available until the last hummingbirds have departed to ensure they have enough fuel for their long journey south.
The Importance of Conservation: Protecting Michigan’s Hummingbirds
While Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are not currently considered a threatened species, they face challenges that can impact their population. Habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change can all have detrimental effects on these delicate creatures. By creating a hummingbird-friendly environment and promoting conservation efforts, we can help ensure that these enchanting birds continue to grace Michigan’s landscapes for generations to come.
Fun Facts About Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
Before we conclude our exploration of hummingbirds in Michigan, let’s appreciate some fascinating facts about these incredible creatures:
- The Ruby-throated Hummingbird can beat its wings up to 53 times per second, allowing it to hover in mid-air while feeding on nectar.
- These hummingbirds can fly long distances during migration, covering up to 500 miles in a single flight while crossing the Gulf of Mexico.
- Hummingbirds have incredible memories and can remember the locations of various flowers in their territory and the last time they visited each one to feed.
- Despite their small size, hummingbirds are fiercely territorial and will aggressively defend their feeding and nesting areas from other hummingbirds and even larger birds.
A Final Word: Celebrating Michigan’s Winged Jewels
Michigan’s Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are a true sight to behold. Their arrival each spring brings a touch of magic to the state’s gardens, woodlands, and meadows. By creating hummingbird-friendly habitats, we can support these beautiful creatures and enjoy their enchanting presence in our own backyards. As we watch them flit from flower to flower, let’s take a moment to appreciate their delicate beauty and the role they play in our ecosystem. The presence of hummingbirds in Michigan reminds us that nature’s wonders are never far away, and with a little effort, we can help protect and preserve these precious gems for future generations.