Hummingbirds are an entertaining birds to watch. Not only do they fly at breakneck speed, but they seem calm (humming) while doing so. Like many bird species, hummingbirds do migrate. Their tiny bodies could not withstand the frigid cold winters, so they fly south. How can you help? What do they look like? Read on!
When Do They Migrate?
Hummingbirds migrate twice yearly: once in the spring and once in the fall. In the spring, they come through our area around April. In the fall, they travel south, passing from August into October. The peaks for travel are May and September, depending on the weather. The weather does explain their timing.
Where Do They Go?
Hummingbirds winter in Mexico and South America. They travel up to the north in the US for the summer months.
How To Help?
Hummingbirds need a few items to help them on their way. Their food is nectar. They also eat tree sap and insects, lots of insects! You could have plants that attract insects. They also need water. Water is used for drinking and cleaning. They sprinkle it on themselves. To help them, keep feeders and waterers away from pets and wild animals.
What Does One Look Like?
Hummingbirds are tiny, only 3.5 inches tall. Their bright colors emanating from their throats make them easy to spot. Then listen. They do hum!
You can learn more from the University of Missouri Extension office about additional information about their habitat, feeding, or migration times.
