Keep Your Eyes Peeled, Thousands of Hummingbirds Are Headed for New Hampshire During Their Migration This Spring

There’s nothing like the nature of the Granite State to soothe the soul. Seeing spring in New Hampshire is particularly magical - it's such a beautiful time! No matter what happens, we're all pretty lucky to live in the Granite State. As we ease into spring, one of the outdoor things we’re most excited about is the influx of New Hampshire hummingbirds as they go about their annual migration. They should be visible in quiet yards (especially if you're lounging around waiting for them on a warm afternoon) in New England and across the country within the next few months. Are you wondering, "When will hummingbirds arrive in New Hampshire?" Read on to find out!

Each February, hummingbirds begin their long journey north, migrating from Mexico and Central America toward the United States and Canada.

There are 300 different species of hummingbirds, but those in the US and Canada can expect to see about 12 of them. Unfortunately, the rest don't make the trip north.

Many parts of the United States will already see the hummingbirds begin long before New Hampshire. With our northern location, we'll be on the lookout in April. Many of the New England states will begin seeing them a bit later than our southern friends.

When do hummingbirds return to New Hampshire? You can typically expect to see the hummingbird migration in New Hampshire around early May.

The first group will be males, who arrive to stake out a feeding area. Females will arrive soon after that. When do hummingbirds leave NH? Get your viewing in throughout the spring and summer because, by the end of September, they'll be on their way out. Get ready for spring and summer filled with trying to spot this fast-flying creature!

The most common of the New Hampshire hummingbirds is the ruby-throated hummingbird.

The males can be identified by their ruby-red throat area, white collar, emerald green back, and forked tail. The female has a green back with tail feathers that have white bands and black and grey-green.

Although they are brightly colored, these tiny little birds can be difficult to spot. Measuring anywhere from 2 to 5 inches, hummingbirds are the smallest birds on the planet!

One great way to entice them to visit your yard is to put out a feeder. Those who are new to spotting the birds might wonder when to put hummingbird feeders out in NH. This should happen a few weeks before they’re due to arrive. You don't have to purchase anything fancy; just a basic hummingbird feeder will do.

New Hampshirites should consider putting them out in mid-April. Making your own hummingbird food is very simple, and you probably already have the ingredients in your kitchen!

Inside the feeders, you’ll put a sugar and water mix; the ratio is one part sugar to four parts water. Just normal, white granulated sugar will do. Make sure not to add red food coloring, as it can harm the little creatures. This can be a great family-friendly activity the youngest nature lovers can enjoy!

Hummingbirds have incredible memories and often return to the same locations every year for food. If you fed them in the fall, don't be surprised to see them knocking this spring! If you keep your feeders full, it won't be long before you have your very own charm. Yep, a group of hummingbirds is called a charm, and it's my favorite fun fact about hummingbirds. I'll share it every chance I can!

Don't forget to have a camera nearby. These birds move quickly and you won’t want to miss your chance at spotting one and taking a photo. Bump up your shutter speed if you want to capture their wings in motion.

The question of when will hummingbirds arrive in New Hampshire has been answered but make sure you have the best hummingbird feeders so you are ready. And, to get the whole family excited about spotting birds consider grabbing some educational cards.

Have you seen the hummingbird migration in New Hampshire in previous years? This interactive map tracks the 2025 migration's progress through the states. Share this article with your fellow bird nerds and start checking out hummingbird feeders online.

While you're making your list of fun things to do this spring, consider taking a fun waterfall road trip through the state.