Keep Your Eyes Peeled, Thousands of Hummingbirds are Headed Right for Mississippi During Their Migration This Spring

Life is unpredictable. However, there are a few things you can count on – and the annual spring migration of hummingbirds is one of them. So, just when will hummingbirds arrive in Mississippi? It won't be long now! Since they don’t migrate in flocks like other birds, their arrival is staggered; however, you’ll likely notice an influx during spring in Mississippi. There are even a few things you can do to attract the colorful creatures to your yard. Read on for everything you need to know about the migration of hummingbirds in Mississippi.

Many birds migrate seasonally, and hummingbirds are no exception. So, when do hummingbirds come back to Mississippi? Well, they typically spend winter in Central America or Mexico, and as early as February, they begin migrating north to the U.S. for breeding.

Hummingbirds migrate hundreds or even thousands of miles, traveling up to 23 miles a day – an impressive feat for the world’s smallest birds!

Fun fact: a group of hummingbirds is called a charm. It's my favorite fun fact about hummingbirds, and I'll share it with you every chance I can!

Male hummingbirds make the migration first and start looking for a home base to build a nest and find food. The females will be right behind them!

Migrating hummingbirds usually begin to arrive in Mississippi around mid-March, staying throughout the summer and fall.

Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the most common hummingbirds east of the Mississippi River. While you may get lucky and catch a glimpse of another type, chances are you'll be getting the beautiful ruby-throated hummingbirds in your backyard. They are the only species of hummingbirds that breeds in North America.

So, now you know the best time to leave out hummingbird feeders in Mississippi.

Unlike other birds, hummingbirds do not travel in seasonal flocks. However, the males head out first and usually arrive about a week to 10 days earlier than the females.

Creatures of habit, hummingbirds stick to a strict routine. They migrate at the same time each year, oftentimes returning to the same yards within a day or two of their previous visit.

While migrating, the colorful birds are more visible than usual because they fly low since they’re searching for food, which is nectar from flowers.

There are a couple of things you can do to increase your chances of seeing hummingbirds this spring. In addition to putting up feeders, you can plant flowers that appeal to hummingbirds, like the Coral Honeysuckle, Trumpet Creeper, or any other brightly-colored, tube-shaped flowers.

If you don't have much of a green thumb, you can always pick up a hummingbird feeder and make your own hummingbird food--it's easier than you think, and I bet you already have the ingredients in your kitchen! One part sugar to four parts water is all it takes. Just normal, white, granulated sugar. Don't worry about the red dye, there has been some research to suggest that the dye does more harm than good. They'll find the feeders, I promise.

Of course, you can always go to the hummingbirds instead of waiting for them to come to you. During the summer months, hummingbirds are a common sight at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Do you anticipate the migration of hummingbirds in Mississippi? Have you spotted any yet this year? Share this article with your favorite bird nerd. For more information and to check the best time to see hummingbirds in Mississippi, visit the Hummingbird Central website. And make sure you have a hummingbird feeder ready for their arrival! They have an interactive map where you can watch the 2025 hummingbird migration from state to state; it's pretty cool!

Looking for more ways to enjoy spring in Mississippi? Check out the best places to visit in Mississippi in spring.