Good news, Virginia! The beautiful ruby-throated hummingbird will likely be flying through your neighborhood soon. The annual spring hummingbird migration is underway, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these lovely creatures as they head northbound. They can be difficult to spot without a little help, so you might consider putting out one of the best hummingbird feeders near your home. Doing so will also keep these tiny travelers sustained as they travel. It’s a win-win! If you want to see hummingbirds in Virginia this spring, read on to learn more!

Each fall, thousands of beautiful hummingbirds take flight from Canada and head to Florida, Mexico, and even as far south as South America.
likeaduck / flickr
Who can blame them? The winter in the United States can often be brutal and a tropical vacation sounds delightful.
Likewise, during the spring, these winged creatures make the return trip. Fortunately for us, the great state of Virginia just so happens to be right along their route.
Anne Davis 773 / flickr
Interestingly, hummingbirds have begun migrating earlier and earlier in the year due to overall warmer winter in the United States. You may spot them even sooner than anticipated.
If you own a hummingbird feeder or have always wanted one, now's the perfect opportunity. Clean out your feeder, fill it up with homemade nectar, and watch in amazement as the birds begin to visit.
Dennis Church / flickr
Homemade nectar is just sugar water, it's very easy to make. We recommend making your own versus buying it and not using any food dyes. Though we don't know for sure that this would harm the birds, it's best to stick as closely to their natural food sources as possible.

Related Stories

The Dreamy Tulip Farm In Virginia You'll Want To Visit This Spring

The Dreamy Tulip Farm In Virginia You'll Want To Visit This Spring

 Celebrate Virginia Spring Wildflowers At Shenandoah National Park's 37th Annual Wildflower Weekend

Celebrate Virginia Spring Wildflowers At Shenandoah National Park's 37th Annual Wildflower Weekend

 Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In Virginia

Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In Virginia
Despite having thousands of miles to travel, hummingbirds fly low so they can spot food supplies along the way. Whether it's a flower or sugar water that you've placed out, they'll be grateful to find any source of energy for the long trip.
Jo Zimny Photos / flickr
Hummingbirds are drawn to bright colors, especially red, and tubular flowers that are both rich in nectar and easy for the hummingbirds to access with their long beaks.
Spotting a hummingbird is a magical event, especially considering how quickly they move. In fact, their wings flap 15 to 80 times per minute!
Mike Bons / Getty Images
During their migration hummingbirds can fly up to 1,300 miles in one go. For that kind of intensive flying they need to be fueled up, which is why having a hummingbird feeder out for them is so important.
So, when can you expect the arrival of hummingbirds in Virginia? Usually, they show up in the first two weeks of April.
Dennis Church / flickr
According to Hummingbird Central, the highest volume of hummingbirds make their way to Virginia between April 1-15. So keep your eyes peeled and don't forget to monitor your feeders if you want to see hummingbirds in Virginia this spring.

Curious about how to make hummingbird food? According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, it’s best to use refined white sugar and water. Mix one part sugar with four parts water until the sugar has dissolved. Place the nectar in the hummingbird feeders and you’re all set! Just be sure to clean out the feeder every other day to prevent mold from growing.

Do you usually set out hummingbird feeders? What kind of hummingbirds do you see in your yard? Let us know in the comments below. We love hearing about your firsthand experiences.

For more fun springtime adventures in Virginia, read this breathtaking scenic drive is the perfect way to take in a Virginia spring.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hummingbirds In Virginia

CC | February 23, 2023

What types of hummingbirds are in Virginia?

The most common hummingbird species across the country is the Ruby-throated hummingbird and you’ll likely spot a lot of these beautiful birds in Virginia. However, it’s also possible that you’ll see some of the following hummingbird species during this spring’s migration.

  • Calliope Hummingbird
  • Allen’s Hummingbird
  • Anna’s Hummingbird
  • Ruby throated Hummingbird
  • Rufous Hummingbird
  • Broad-tailed hummingbird
  • Black-chinned Hummingbird

 

When should I hang a hummingbird feeder in Virginia?

Some hummingbirds do stay in the U.S. year round and they need food as well, so you can leave your feeders out all year long if you’d like. Most people put the feeders out in the spring when the majority of birds head north. Regardless, be sure to choose the best hummingbird feeders for your visitors.

Is it safe to feed hummingbirds in Virginia?

Yes! It is safe to feed hummingbirds in Virginia. Help these poor tired birds out and feed them a little snack.

Related Articles

Explore Virginia

Featured Addresses
Virginia, USA