Should I take down my hummingbird feeder in September?

No. Fall migration occurs in waves, and late migrants or young hummingbirds may still pass through. Keep a clean feeder available for at least two weeks after your last confirmed hummingbird sighting.

Will keeping a feeder out stop hummingbirds from migrating?

No. Healthy hummingbirds migrate in response to internal seasonal timing, daylight, weather, and food conditions. A clean feeder provides a refueling opportunity for birds that are still moving south.

Where are hummingbirds migrating right now?

In mid-September, major fall movement is generally underway through the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, Midwest, Northeast, and Upper South, while the Southeast, Texas, Louisiana, and Gulf Coast are important stopover regions. Exact timing varies by weather, region, species, and individual bird.

Why did my hummingbirds suddenly disappear?

Your local breeding birds may have moved south, but that does not mean migration has ended. Hummingbirds travel in waves, and another group of migrants may still arrive at your feeder.

How long should I keep a hummingbird feeder out after the last sighting?

Keep a clean feeder available for at least two weeks after your last confirmed hummingbird sighting. This helps late migrants and young birds that may still be moving through.

What should I feed migrating hummingbirds?

Use a simple nectar recipe of four parts water to one part plain white granulated sugar. Do not use red dye, honey, brown sugar, artificial sweeteners, or fruit juice.

What should I do if I see a hummingbird late in fall?

A late hummingbird may be a normal migrant. Keep a clean feeder available, take photographs, and record the date and location. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if the bird is injured, grounded, unable to fly, unable to feed, or lethargic and unresponsive during daylight.

Fall Hummingbird Migration Across the U.S.: Where They Are Now and Why You Should Keep Feeders Out | NectarBloom™