Hummingbirds are incredibly beautiful birds that bring joy to birdwatchers all year round. Despite their small size, they possess remarkable qualities that never fail to impress. Bird lovers eagerly await the arrival of hummingbird season, when these delightful birds come to breed, build nests, and find food.
In Texas, a large state in the South-central part of the country, hummingbirds reside every year. However, their migration patterns change with the seasons. Let’s explore when hummingbirds leave the Lone Star state.
When Do Hummingbirds Leave Texas?
Hummingbirds typically leave Texas in September, along with the last of the migrating species departing at the end of October. However, the exact departure time can vary depending on the species and their location within the state. It’s important to note that hummingbird migration patterns in Texas can change each year.
Frequently Found Hummingbird Species In Texas
Texans are fortunate to have the opportunity to see many different types of hummingbird species each year. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has recorded up to 18 hummingbird species in the state, with the most recent sighting in 2012. The two most common species in Texas are the Black-chinned and Ruby-throated hummingbirds. Other migrating hummingbirds that can be found in Texas include the Broad-tailed, Buff-bellied, Blue-throated mountain gem, Calliope, Rufous, and Lucifer hummingbirds. While these species are not typically seen in Texas, there have been sightings of Anna’s, Allen’s, Broad-billed, Costa’s, Green-breasted mango, Mexican Violetear, Rivoli’s, Violet Crowned, and White-eared hummingbirds.
Where Can You Find Hummingbirds In Texas?
Thanks to its diverse landscapes and abundant floral resources, Texas is a welcoming haven for hummingbirds. Popular spots to find these birds include the Big Bend National Park, Gulf Coast, Davis Mountains, and Hill Country. However, you can also attract hummingbirds to your own yard by creating a welcoming environment with native plants that provide their primary food source – nectar from flowers.
When Do Hummingbirds Arrive In Texas?
Migrating species, such as the Ruby-throated and Black-Chinned hummingbirds, begin arriving in Texas from early to mid-March. However, their arrival time can vary depending on the species and weather conditions. Some hummingbirds may arrive as late as mid-May.
Do Hummingbirds Arrive In Texas At The Same Time?
No, hummingbirds do not arrive in Texas at the same time. Male hummingbirds are typically the first to arrive, establishing their territories early. Female hummingbirds arrive a few weeks later. The arrival time varies depending on the species and migration routes.
Do Hummingbirds Visit The Whole State Of Texas?
Hummingbirds can visit the entire state of Texas, but their presence may vary depending on the time of year. If it’s hummingbird season and you haven’t seen them yet, be patient as they may be en route to your area.
Do Hummingbirds Spend All Year In Texas?
Hummingbirds can reside in Texas all year round, depending on the species and weather conditions. The Buff-bellied hummingbird can be observed year-round along the southern coasts of Texas, while Black-chinned hummingbirds stay in southern regions near the Rio Grande Valley. Rufous hummingbirds may over-winter in the southern parts of Texas.
How Can You Prepare For The Arrival Of Hummingbirds?
To prepare for the arrival of hummingbirds, it’s best to grow native plants that provide their primary food source – nectar from flowers. Planting a variety of colorful flowers will increase your chances of attracting them. These plants also provide shelter for the birds after their long journeys to Texas. Additionally, you can provide hummingbird feeders with a sugar-water solution to supplement their diet.
What Kinds Of Plants Should Be Grown To Attract Hummingbirds In Texas?
To attract hummingbirds in Texas, it’s best to grow trumpet creeper, cigar plant, flame acanthus, Turk’s cup, coral honeysuckle, Indian paintbrush, lantana, milkweed, bluebonnet, Mexican buckeye, horsemint, salvia, and autumn sage.
Can Feeders Attract Hummingbirds In Texas?
Yes, you can attract hummingbirds to your garden in Texas by hanging colorful feeders. Hummingbirds are naturally attracted to vibrant colors, so choose feeders in shades of red, pink, or orange. Avoid using dyed solutions in the feeders, as this can harm the birds. Instead, prepare a sugar-water solution with one cup of white sugar and four cups of water. You can also buy pre-made nectar from stores. Remember to change the solution regularly to prevent fermentation.
When Should You Put Out Your Hummingbird Feeders In Texas?
To attract early migrants, it’s best to put out your hummingbird feeders in Texas by early March, at least a week before their expected arrival.
When Should Hummingbird Feeders Be Taken Down In Texas?
You can take down your hummingbird feeders in Texas at least two weeks after you last sight hummingbirds at your feeders. Since most migrating hummingbirds leave Texas by the end of October, it’s safe to take down your feeders by early November. However, you can leave them out to feed overwintering or injured species, but remember to change the solution regularly.
Where Do Hummingbirds From Texas Migrate To In The Winter?
When hummingbirds leave Texas in the winter, they migrate to Central American countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
Conclusion
As hummingbird season comes to an end, these tiny marvels embark on incredible journeys to Central American countries. However, they have excellent memories and will return to your garden in future seasons if you create a welcoming environment for them. By growing native plants and providing feeders, you can continue to enjoy the presence of these beautiful birds.