Here Come the Ruby-throats!

After a slow start to the season, Ruby-throated Hummingbird migration is picking up along the Gulf Coast. 

Seth in New Orleans, LA: "This is the first 2021 spring migratory Ruby-throated Hummingbird (an adult male) we have seen in our yard. We had a new adult male Ruby-throated hummingbird show up 12 February 2021 (previously reported on Journey North), but it is a winter resident (now banded) that drifted into our yard from somewhere nearby, we believe, and is still with us on 12 March 2021." (03/12/2021)

John in Prairieville, LA: "The Ruby-throats appeared this morning at the feeders. Two males and one female. Already fighting over 4 feeders." (03/13/2021)

Thomas in Vancleave, MS: "Male. First of the season. At nectar feeder." (03/13/2021)

Lythia in La Porte, TX: "Male Ruby-throat at feeder. Feeders have been out one week." (03/14/2021)

Rufous Hummingbirds

Rufous Hummingbirds are returning to breeding grounds and making their way up the West Coast. Reports are starting to come in from British Columbia, Canada.

John in Salem, OR: "[Rufous Hummingbird] shot with iphone through living room window... mid morning." (03/07/2021)

Gary in Delta, BC: "First Rufous Hummingbird of the year, a male, 7 days later than 2020, also a male. Arrived just before sunset as in 2020." (03/14/2021)

Other Species 

Black-chinned Hummingbirds are leaving wintering sites in Mexico and being reported in Texas. This species migrates as far north as British Columbia, Canada.

 Alexandra in Llano, TX: "First male Black-chinned hummingbird." (03/07/2021)

Sondra in Horseshoe Bay, TX: "First Black-chinned of the spring sighted in tree." (03/11/2021)

Put Feeders Out and Report Observations

Some Journey North citizen scientists are reporting early arrivals. It is time to put your feeders and potted nectar plants out. These nectar sources provide crucial energy for migrating hummingbirds. And depending on your location, start planting brightly-colored native flowers to provide pollinator habitat for hummingbirds and other species such as monarch butterflies. Don't delay – hummingbirds are here! Report your observations to Journey North.

Ron in Magnolia, AR: "One male came by empty feeder. Caught us by surprise!" (03/10/2021)

Jessica in Conroe, TX: "2 weeks earlier than I usually have them!" (03/11/2021)

Exploring Together 

Want to learn more about hummingbirds? Journey North has many resources for anyone with a curious mind. This week we feature resources related to the Hummingbird Migration.