Hummingbird Migration Is Underway Across the U.S.

Every year, the country experiences one of the most adorable invasions you’ve ever seen - the spring hummingbird migration! When will hummingbirds arrive this year? Well, it depends on what part of the country you live in, but don’t worry – we’ve got everything you need to know to get ready for the hummingbird migration, including what to feed hummingbirds, what type of hummingbirds you can expect to see, and how to fill your hummingbird feeders. Let's learn all we need to know about the hummingbird migration in the U.S.

Hummingbird Migration 2026: What to Expect Across the U.S.

Hummingbirds are one of the most marvelous creatures to watch, and the hummingbird migration of 2026 starts as early as March. Hummingbirds are only found in the Western Hemisphere, and as the smallest of the birds, you may be surprised to learn how many different species exist. There are over 360+ species of hummingbirds, but not all of them are migratory. Only a dozen to 15 species will regularly migrate from Mexico and Central America to the United States and Canada.

These beauties are year-round residents of the Pacific coastal and southern desert regions, such as California and Arizona. And you know what? We don't blame them. California is a pretty great place to live year-round.

Meet the Most Common Migratory Hummingbirds

One of the most common hummingbirds in the South is the ruby-throated hummingbird. These are typically the ones you’ll see first as they continue to head further north, reaching final destinations as far north as Canada! As early as March, folks along the Gulf Coast have seen the ruby-throated hummingbird. By early May, many have reached parts of New England, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

How Hummingbirds Remember Your Feeders Year After Year

Hummingbirds have an excellent memory and are known to return to the same location year after year, including stopping by their favorite hummingbird feeder!

If you’re wondering, “What can I feed hummingbirds?” Well, we’ve got you covered. Chances are, you already have the ingredients at home.

First, you’ll need a hummingbird feeder.

The Best Hummingbird Feeders to Attract These Tiny Travelers

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, a hummingbird feeder is the easiest way to go. The migration from their winter home is the hardest on them, and they typically gain 25 to 40 percent of their body weight to make the journey. When they arrive, they will be hungry!

Next, you’ll need a hummingbird feeder recipe. The goal here is to replicate the natural nectar (lantana, zinnias, yentas, milkweed, and salvia are among their favorites in the wild) that hummingbirds have been shown to favor. Our recommended mix is four parts water to one part sugar. It might sound crazy – we humans can't survive on sugar water, even if we tried super hard. But for our tiny feathered friends, it's breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

We are talking pure white sugar here. Do not use substitutes, no artificial sweeteners, no brown sugar – just pure, white, granulated sugar. Do not use red dye. This is completely unnecessary and can be harmful to hummingbirds. Many of the hummingbird feeders themselves are red so that the hummingbirds can see them. Please do not use red dye in your homemade mixtures! Seriously – it's old-world, and nowadays, we know better.

Feeder Care: Keeping Hummingbirds Healthy and Safe

Be sure to clean it and keep it filled; before you know it, you'll have your very own charm! Yes, a "charm" is a group of hummingbirds. Perfect, right? Cleanliness is, in fact, very important; hummingbirds are delicate critters, and all kinds of molds and bacteria can grow in unattended feeders that can and do make them very sick. Keep it clean, keep it responsible, and enjoy – these little birds are absolutely incredible.

Now that you know more about the hummingbird migration in the U.S., don't forget to get your hummingbird feeders filled up! Once you put your feeder up and keep it filled, these little beauties will frequently stop by year after year. Remember, they've got excellent memories! If your memory is good enough, you'll notice the same birds returning year after year – and their young, their grand-young, and so forth. You get the idea: become a generational icon to these delightful little birds!

Spot Hummingbirds in the Wild: Best U.S. Wildflower Hikes

One of the best ways to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is to go on a wildflower hike. Here are some of the most amazing displays of wildflowers in Washington – if you are lucky, you might even spot a few hummingbirds dancing between flowers.

Planning a spring outing to spot hummingbirds or enjoy peak wildflower season? Use the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner to map out your nature hikes, birdwatching stops, and scenic drives all in one place.