Posted in Maine Nature, Spring February 12, 2023 by Michelle

Keep Your Eyes Peeled, Thousands Of Hummingbirds Are Headed For Maine During Their Migration This Spring

There’s nothing like nature to soothe the soul. And luckily, the Pine Tree State has some of the most beautiful natural surroundings. As we ease into spring, you may be wondering, when will hummingbirds arrive in Maine? We’re excited to watch the influx of hummingbirds that are expected to arrive as part of their annual migration. They should be visible in quiet yards in New England (especially when we know where to get some of the best hummingbird feeders!) and across the country within the upcoming weeks.

Each year in February, hummingbirds migrate from Mexico and Central America heading for the United States and Canada.

Of the 300 different species of hummingbirds, about 12 make the trip north. That’s right! There are *300* different species!

While much of the US will see the birds in March and April, those of us in the northeast will need to wait just a little bit longer.

We can expect to start seeing the first arrivals in the first week of May. Mainly males, this first group will arrive and stake out their own feeding areas. The females follow soon after and most leave by the end of September. That makes for an entire summer of spotting these beautiful creatures.

You should be on the lookout for the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds as these are the most prevalent here. You’ll know the male by their ruby-red throat area, a white collar, an emerald green back and a forked tail. The female has a green back with tail feathers that have white bands and black and grey-green.

While beautiful, hummingbirds can be hard to spot. A great way to increase the chances of being visited by a hummingbird is to put feeders out in your yard a few weeks before they’re expected to arrive.

In Maine, you might consider putting them out in mid-April. Inside the feeders you’ll put a simple sugar water mixture or you can buy pre-made food online.

Isn’t spring in Maine grand? To learn more about hummingbird migration in Maine, and beyond, check out this great resource on all things hummingbirds.

What are your plans to try to catch a view of some of these hummingbirds? Make sure to get out those hummingbird feeders in Maine! Check out some of the best hummingbird feeders to buy before spring. Have you seen these colorful creatures in the area during previous migrations? If you have any advice on how to attract them, leave a comment!

That’s not all we have to look forward to in the great outdoors of Maine! When you want to explore by car, check out this covered bridge road trip! Eight historic (and impressive) structures are waiting!

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When will hummingbirds arrive in Maine?

February 17, 2023

Chris Dodge

What types of hummingbirds are in Maine?

These are the types of hummingbirds you will find in Maine:

The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, which is the most common
The Rufous Hummingbird, which is a little bit rarer to see
The Calliope Hummingbird, which is the rarest one to see
The Mexican Violetear Hummingbird usually is found in the southwest but will occasionally find its way into New England

When should I hang a hummingbird feeder in Maine?

The best time to hang a hummingbird feeder in Maine is during the last week of April, so you will be ready for the birds to arrive in May.

Is it safe to feed hummingbirds in Maine?

Yes, it is safe to feed hummingbirds in Maine. Mix 1 part refined white sugar and 4 parts water in a mix for your feeder.