Hummingbird Central



Spring 2017 Hummingbird Sightings and Migration Map

Interactive 2024 hummingbird migration and sightings map
Interactive 2023 hummingbird migration and sightings map

Hummingbirds spend the winter in Central America or Mexico, and migrate north to their breeding grounds in the southern United States as early as February, and to areas further north later in the spring. The first arrivals in spring are usually males. Some, however, do not migrate, in areas like California and the upper Pacific coast.

Shown below is our final 2017 map of hummingbird sightings across the U.S. and Canada, as reported by our website viewers.

Our Final 2017 Spring Migration Map

2017 was yet another exciting hummingbird season! Shown below is our final sightings map of 2017.

2017 Hummingbird Spring Migration Map


Map of Typical First Ruby-throated Hummingbird Spring Arrival Dates in the United States

Map showing the average spring migration arrival dates for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in North America
Map showing the average spring migration arrival dates for Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds in North America


More About the Spring Hummingbird Migration

During migration, a hummingbird's heart beats up to 1,260 times a minute, and its wings flap 15 to 80 times a second. To support this high energy level, a hummingbird will typically gain 25-40% of their body weight before they start migration in order to make the long trek over land, and water. They fly alone, often on the same path they have flown earlier in their life. Young hummingbirds must navigate without parental guidance.

Hummingbirds fly by day when nectar sources such as flowers are more abundant. Flying low allows the birds to see, and stop at, food supplies along the way. They are also experts at using tail winds to help reach their destination faster and by consuming less energy and body fat. Research indicates a hummingbird can travel as much as 23 miles in one day.

Strong cold fronts moving south over the Gulf of Mexico make flying difficult as the birds deal with headwinds and heavy rain, over long distances with no shelter. Food is non-existent over the open waters.


The Fall Hummingbird Migration

By August and September, hummingbirds are moving south, refueling their bodies in the early morning, traveling midday, and foraging again in the late afternoon to maintain their body weight.

Ruby-throats gather in Florida, Louisiana and along the South Texas coast in September in preparation for the final push to the south, either over the Gulf of Mexico or via an overland route through Mexico.