When do I take down my hummingbird feeders?
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
One answer I often hear is:
“You should stop feeding hummingbirds in the fall so that they can begin their southern migration.”
This is actually a myth. The urge to migrate is activated by several factors, but the most significant one is the number of hours of sunlight. No matter how much food is around, when the days get shorter, the hummingbirds will move on.
I recommend leaving your feeders out for a few weeks after your see your last hummingbird. Occasionally an individual hummingbird doesn’t migrate on schedule, due to illness or injury. These late migrants will appreciate having a reliable source of food when only a few natural flowers remain in bloom. The added food source will provide the extra energy needed to complete their migration.
When will you see your last hummingbird? Well that depends on where you live. Here in New Hampshire it is around the end of September, but in southern areas of the United States it may not be until mid to late November. If you plan on feeding hummingbirds year after year, you may find it helpful to mark your calendar when you take your hummingbird feeders down. This will serve as a reminder for years to come.
For more information about hummingbirds check these links:
Hummingbird Migration
Hummingbird Migration Map
Hummingbird Feeder Recipe
Facts About Hummingbirds
Best Hummingbird Feeders