As the warmth of spring returns to the Texas landscape, its flowering gardens can’t be far behind. When the blooms begin to produce their sweet nectar, the fortunate observer may be greeted by the thrumming of jeweled wings. The hummingbirds will return with the warm sunshine of the season. Where have they been, and when do the hummingbirds return to Texas? Read below to find out!
Chiefly About Hummingbirds
When do hummingbirds return to Texas?
©Chelsea Sampson/Shutterstock.com
Hummingbirds are native to the Americas; there are over 350 known species, though more are continually being discovered. They are called hummingbirds because of the “humming” sound made by the rapid beating of their wings. They are the only bird species that can fly backward. Though the average hummingbird only weighs between .07 and .7 ounces, the largest hummingbird can reach lengths of up to 9 inches.
When Do Hummingbirds Return to Texas?
While some will stay in Texas year-round, most hummingbirds will migrate and return to Texas around mid-March, though some males may return as early as the middle of February. Around this time of year, birdwatchers will begin to see ruby-throated, buff-bellied, blue-throated, magnificent, Lucifer, black-chinned, and broad-tailed hummingbirds. Rufous hummingbirds don’t show up until July.
Where Have They Been?
During the winter, many hummingbirds travel to Mexico and Central America.
©Frank Lombardi Jr/iStock via Getty Images
Though some species stay in Texas year-round, many will migrate south to Mexico or Central America in the late summer or autumn. There are other exceptions, of course. Buff-bellied hummingbirds will drift north in the late summer and fall, turning up on the Gulf Coast, sometimes as far east as Florida. Many hummingbirds are just passing through on their way to northern climes. Rufous hummingbirds breed as far north as Alaska, then travel south, passing through Texas in July to winter in Mexico.
How Can You Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard?
Feeders like this are a simple way to draw hummingbirds to your yard.
©LHolmes Photography/Shutterstock.com
Hummingbirds eat many insects, but a hummingbird will consume half its sugar weight daily. So, feeders with sugar water are one way to attract hummingbirds. Keep the feeders clean to prevent them from carrying diseases. Another way to attract these colorful creatures is to plant gardens with flowers high in nectar, like zinnias, trumpet creepers, or butterfly bushes.
The photo featured at the top of this post is © M-C-C/iStock via Getty Images
How to Add Us to Google News
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.
