Seasonal Migration – Most hummingbirds migrate between North and Central America, heading south in the fall and returning north in the spring.
Long Distances – Some species, like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, travel over 2,000 miles, including a non-stop 500-mile flight over the Gulf of Mexico.
Triggered by Daylight – As daylight hours shorten in late summer, hummingbirds instinctively prepare for migration by increasing food intake.
Hyperphagia – Before migration, they enter a feeding frenzy called hyperphagia, doubling their body weight to store enough energy for the journey.
Solo Travelers – Unlike many other birds, hummingbirds migrate alone rather than in flocks, each following its own instinctive route.
High Energy Needs – Their rapid wingbeats (up to 80 per second) require constant refueling from nectar, insects, and sugar-rich foods.
Rest Stops – Hummingbirds rely on flowers, feeders, and natural habitats along their migration route to refuel and regain strength.
Weather Challenges – Storms, strong winds, and cold temperatures pose significant dangers, making timing crucial for a successful migration.