Discover When Hummingbirds Return to Louisiana

Hummingbird season in Louisiana is a magical time. During this time, thousands of hummingbirds flock to Louisiana for warmth. Although multiple species are found in Louisiana, only one is common, the ruby-throated hummingbird. So, when do they come? Follow along to discover when hummingbirds return to Louisiana and how to attract them.

When Do Hummingbirds Return to Louisiana?

Hummingbirds return to Louisiana starting in mid to late February. They sometimes stay till as late as early May or the end of April. The peak time though to see hummingbirds, especially ruby-throated hummingbirds is during March. For fall migration, hummingbirds are often spotted from August to October. Generally, they stop in southern states like Louisiana for a rest and a snack before continuing their journey. Some stragglers even stay in Louisiana all year round. Those that leave go around November.

If you’re interested in seeing hummingbirds in Louisiana, check out botanical gardens during the summer that grow hummingbird and pollinator-friendly plants. They may even be seen in public parks.

How To Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard

Now that we know when hummingbirds return to Louisiana, we can dive into how to attract them to your yard. Hummingbirds aren’t like other backyard birds. They aren’t interested in seeds or grains, but instead in nectar and water. According to the National Audubon Society, a great way to attract hummingbirds to your yard is by adding one or multiple hummingbird feeders. You can purchase a hummingbird nectar or make one with just sugar and water. Try not to use dyes, flavors, or scents. It’s also important to place the feeders far apart and in the shade. Hummingbirds can be territorial and may fight one another if they are using the same feeder.

Feeders though might not be enough. To attract native hummingbirds and pollinators, it’s best to plant pollinator-friendly flowers. Some of these include spotted beebalm, cardinal flower, scarlet sage, hummingbird sage, and coral/trumpet honeysuckle.

Adding a consistent water source can also help to attract hummingbirds to your yard. They like to bathe and are attracted to misting devices. 

Types of Hummingbirds Found in Louisiana

Have you ever wondered what kind of hummingbirds live in Louisiana, or pass through? There are at least six species found in the state, with the most common one being the ruby-throated hummingbird. Keep reading to learn more about each species.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

Starting our list is the most common, the ruby-throated hummingbird. These tiny and vibrant birds are easy to spot. They have teal wings on their back and are known for their bright red throats. Only males have bright red throats. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are also known for their tiny size. They are only about 2.8 to 3.5 inches long and weigh up to 0.2 ounces.

Calliope Hummingbirds

Another hummingbird species found in Louisiana is the calliope hummingbird. Calliope hummingbirds are beautiful. Male calliope hummingbirds have magenta/purple throats, while immature juveniles and females have peachy and green spotted throats. These little birds are often seen perched with a hunch. They are around 3 inches long and only weigh 0.1 ounces. These lovely birds spend their winters in Mexico.

Black-chinned Hummingbirds

Also on our list of hummingbirds found in Louisiana, although uncommonly, are black-chinned hummingbirds. Male and female black-chinned hummingbirds look very different. Males have velvety black throats and heads and metallic green flanks. Females are a lot more pale and have shiny green and yellow feathers. Like other hummingbirds, they are small, weighing 0.1 to 0.2 ounces.

Rufous Hummingbirds

You’re very lucky if you run into a rufous hummingbird in Louisiana, although they do visit. Rufous hummingbirds are gorgeous and vibrant birds. They are easy to spot. Male rufous hummingbirds are orange and red, like a copper coin. They have a wide nesting range and can even be found in Alaska. Female rufous hummingbirds are not red/orange. Instead, they are grey, brown, and greenish.

Broad-tailed Hummingbirds

Another uncommon hummingbird found in Louisiana is the broad-tailed hummingbird. They are often confused with ruby-throated hummingbirds, although broad-tailed hummingbirds are larger. Males have a magenta throat and shiny green feathers. Females are missing the bright pink patch on their throats. Both males and females are about 3.5 to 4 inches.

Anna’s Hummingbirds

Last but not least is the Anna’s hummingbird. These adorable hummingbirds are easy to identify from their bright pink faces. Females are duller and missing this feature. Both sexes are about 4 to 4.5 inches long and can weigh up to 0.2 ounces. They are fast and very great pollinators. These hummingbirds can shake their bodies 55 times per second.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © MattCuda/iStock via Getty Images