Texas hosts at least 18 hummingbird species, making it a premier location for viewing these migrants. The state’s geographic position at the intersection of the Central and Mississippi flyways establishes it as a natural gateway for the biannual movement of species traveling between their northern breeding grounds and southern wintering territories. This ensures a prolonged viewing season, with peak activity occurring during the spring and fall migratory periods.
Spring Arrival and Summer Residents
The northward journey begins early, with the first male hummingbirds appearing along the Texas Gulf Coast as early as late February. The main wave of migrants arrives between mid-March and early April, aligning with the blooming of early-season native flowers. This arrival marks the beginning of the breeding season for the state’s summer residents.
The Black-chinned Hummingbird establishes territories across central and west Texas, particularly throughout the Edwards Plateau. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird claims its breeding range in the eastern half of the state, generally east of the 98th meridian. Both species remain to nest and raise their young, with breeding activity extending from early April through the end of the summer.
The Fall Migration Funnel and Peak Viewing
The southbound migration starts quietly in early August, when adult males begin their journey south, signaling the end of breeding duties. Activity builds rapidly, culminating in peak viewing throughout September, when feeders and flowers can be intensely busy. This heightened traffic results from Texas acting as a funnel for the entire North American population.
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird gathers along the South Texas coast in September, using this area as a refueling stop before attempting a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico. On the western side of the state, the Rufous Hummingbird, which breeds as far north as Alaska, passes through Texas in late summer and fall. Most migrants have pushed through by late October, though stragglers may continue to be seen until mid-November.
Regional Timelines and Overwintering Species
Given the state’s size, the timing of movements varies significantly by region. Northern and Panhandle areas see their last migrants depart by October, while the Gulf Coast often experiences a later close to the season. West Texas mountains see a diverse array of transient species, including the Broad-tailed and Lucifer hummingbirds, passing through.
The Buff-bellied Hummingbird nests and remains year-round in the southernmost part of Texas, primarily the Lower Rio Grande Valley. This local population persists due to the mild conditions and specific habitat. Other species, such as the Rufous Hummingbird, may also overwinter in central and southern Texas, often congregating at feeders during mild winters.
Supporting Hummingbirds During Their Stay
To prepare for the spring arrival, feeders should be deployed in late February or early March, about two weeks before the earliest expected migrants. Maintaining a clean feeder with a simple solution of four parts water to one part plain white sugar provides a necessary energy boost. Avoid using red dye, which is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the birds.
Feeders should remain in place throughout the fall until at least two weeks after the last sighting, ensuring late-migrating juveniles have access to resources. While feeders provide energy, planting native nectar sources like salvia, honeysuckle, and cardinal flower offers the best support. A varied garden provides both nectar and the small insects hummingbirds require for protein.