Florida serves a unique and temporary role for the diminutive hummingbirds of the eastern United States. The state functions as a welcoming winter haven and a launching pad for the biannual migration, rather than a primary summer breeding ground. Florida’s abundant winter foliage and warm temperatures provide a necessary refueling stop for the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, which make up the vast majority of the population passing through.
The Primary Migratory Schedule
The most common species to visit the state is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. They use Florida as a major corridor during their journey between northern breeding grounds and wintering territory in Central America. The spring migration brings the first arrivals, typically adult males, to the southern parts of the state as early as late February or mid-March. Females follow approximately one to two weeks later, as the birds push northward into the continental United States and Canada.
The southward movement begins in late summer and early fall, marking the peak season for hummingbird activity in Florida. Males depart northern territories as early as late July, while the main wave of migrants arrives throughout September and into early October. During this time, they accumulate fat reserves necessary for the final, non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico, a journey that can take up to 22 hours.
Sightings tend to start earlier in the Panhandle region in the fall, as birds following the Gulf Coast funnel south, and continue later into the season in the peninsula’s southern counties. The majority of the Ruby-throated population has departed by mid-October. However, a few stragglers may linger at feeders until early November. Florida hosts these migratory birds during their non-breeding season, offering a temporary but necessary stopover point.
Permanent Residents and Unexpected Visitors
While the Ruby-throated Hummingbird dominates the migratory schedule, the state also hosts other species, primarily during the winter months. These visitors are not permanent residents, but they do overwinter, providing a continuous presence in some areas. The most common western species to spend the non-breeding season in Florida are the Rufous Hummingbird and the Black-chinned Hummingbird.
The Rufous Hummingbird, which breeds as far north as Alaska, is a frequent winter visitor. Banding studies show it often accounts for nearly half of the non-Ruby-throated hummingbirds captured in the state. These birds are spotted in Florida between September and April, demonstrating high site fidelity by returning to the same yards for multiple consecutive winters. The Black-chinned Hummingbird is also a regular winter resident, often found between September and April.
Beyond these common winter species, a variety of accidental or vagrant hummingbirds occasionally appear in Florida. Species such as the Calliope Hummingbird, Allen’s Hummingbird, and Buff-bellied Hummingbird have been documented through banding efforts. These sightings are exceptions to the norm and highlight Florida’s position as an accidental destination for birds that have strayed from their typical migration routes along the western United States and Mexico.
Attracting and Feeding Hummingbirds
Supporting hummingbirds during their stopover requires attention to both natural and supplemental food sources. The recommended supplement is a simple nectar solution of one part refined white sugar to four parts water. This is prepared by dissolving the sugar in hot water and allowing it to cool. This sugar-water mixture must be maintained scrupulously, especially given Florida’s warm and humid climate.
The solution can ferment quickly, so feeders should be emptied and cleaned every two to three days in warm weather, and potentially daily during intense heat. Placing feeders in a shaded area helps slow spoilage. Thorough cleaning with a bottle brush and hot water prevents the buildup of mold and bacteria. To minimize territorial conflicts among aggressive hummingbirds during peak migration, multiple feeders should be positioned at least 10 feet apart.
A thriving garden provides the most reliable food source for the birds. Native Florida plants with brightly colored, tubular flowers are attractive to hummingbirds.
Recommended Native Plants
Firebush (Hamelia patens), which blooms prolifically and is tolerant of heat and drought.
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), a vine that provides nectar over a long season.
Coral Bean (Erythrina herbacea).
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis).
These species ensure a continuous supply of natural nectar throughout the hummingbirds’ stay.