When Do Hummingbirds Leave New York?

From city to city, state to state, and country to country, hummingbirds – the world’s top migratory birds – are famous for their extensive journeys in search of tropical climates, nesting spots, and food sources. 

These tiny birds are majorly found in different cities in Central and South America at different times of the year. So, when exactly do these tiny birds leave New York? Knowing when these special birds leave New York will help you prepare for their journey and anticipate their next visit. 

When Do Hummingbirds Leave New York?

Key Takeaways

• Migration Timing in New York: Hummingbirds leave New York around late September to early October. They head south to places like Central America. The Ruby-throated species stays even in winter and arrives between late April and mid-May.
• Common Species in New York: New York sees species like the Ruby-throated, Rufous, and others. The Ruby-throated is most common. Males have a red throat, while females have paler back feathers.
• Attracting Hummingbirds: Plant native, nectar-producing plants. Avoid chemicals in gardening. Brightly coloured feeders, especially red, can be used. Hang feeders by late April.
• Feeder Care and Winter Actions: Change feeder nectar every few days. No sightings in winter? Take feeders down, clean, and store. Some birds might stay, so consider leaving feeders out. In winter, many migrate to Central America.

Related post to read about Best Hummingbird Feeders

What Kinds Of Hummingbirds Are Commonly Found In New York?

There are more than 350 species of hummingbirds that migrate globally. However, in New York, the most commonly found species include the Ruby-throated, Rufous, Calliope, Broad-billed, and Anna’s hummingbirds. 

Among these birds, the Ruby-throated hummingbird is the most common bird found in New York. These distinct species can be easily identified by their vibrant colours. The males have a beautiful ruby-red throat and bright green back feathers. Females, on the other hand, don’t have the red throat and their green back feathers are slightly less vibrant. However, they do have longer beaks compared to the males.

When Do Hummingbirds Arrive In New York?

Among the most common hummingbirds in the state, the Ruby-throated species typically migrate to New York from late April to mid-May.

As is common with these birds, they do not migrate in large packs or arrive at the same time. The male species make their way to New York in late April or early May to establish their breeding territories, while the females join them about 2 weeks later in mid-May.

Do The Migration Patterns Of Hummingbirds In New York Change?

The migration patterns of hummingbirds in New York are not predictable and can indeed change. Several factors can influence these patterns, especially weather conditions. These birds migrate in order to locate regions with warmer climates, which in turn guarantees a greater abundance of their food sources, mainly nectar from flowers and insects. 

How To Prepare For The Arrival Of Hummingbirds In New York

Hummingbirds are pollinators and are drawn to plants that are pollen-friendly. Therefore, if you live in New York and want to attract these birds, plant native plants. 

Cultivating a diverse array of flowers with different bloom times ensures a continuous supply of fresh nectar for hummingbirds. As territorial birds, it is best to have a variety of feeding options for them. 

What Kinds Of Plants Should Be Grown To Attract Hummingbirds In New York?

Rather than invest in imported plants, native plants like impatiens, lupines, petunias, bee balm, daylilies, cleomes, and columbines should be planted. These plants are nectar-producing, making them ideal for attracting hummingbirds. 

Also, some New York native grasses, such as Indian grass, switchgrass, and bluestem, are hummingbird-friendly, so you can consider incorporating them into your garden. 

While growing certain plants is a sure way to attract these birds, you have to ensure that the cultivation process is harmless. As such, you have to use only organic products during cultivation because the use of pesticides, chemical fertilisers and herbicides can be harmful to not just the birds but the plants that they rely on.

Can You Attract Hummingbirds With Feeders In New York? 

If you don’t have enough space to grow nectar-producing plants that can attract hummingbirds, an excellent alternative is to offer nectar feeders to these beautiful creatures.

These feeders serve as a form of supplement because they don’t provide hummingbirds with the full nutrients that nectar-producing plants do. Given that hummingbirds are naturally drawn to vibrant hues, it’s advisable to choose feeders in bright colours, particularly shades of red and orange.

You can hang these feeders on tree branches or outside your apartment window. However, you have to hang them away from each other to prevent conflicts among the birds.

Nectar feeders can be prepared in an easy process. All you need to make this solution is a cup of sugar with about 4 cups of water, maintaining a sugar-to-water ratio of about 20:80.

Pre-made nectar for feeders can be purchased from stores if you don’t want to go through the preparation process. 

Once you’ve hung your feeder, be consistent about changing the solution every few days, especially in warm weather, as sugar solutions can ferment quickly. This regular maintenance will keep the nectar fresh and safe for your avian visitors.

When Should You Put Out Your Hummingbird Feeders In New York?

Hummingbird feeders can be put out in late April when the first set of male hummingbirds arrive in the area. This timing ensures that you’re ready to welcome these enchanting birds as they make their seasonal return.

When Should Hummingbird Feeders Be Taken Down In New York?

If you haven’t seen any hummingbirds at your feeders for a few weeks, you can take them down in the winter when they migrate from New York.  When you take down your feeders, wash them thoroughly, have them air-dried, and store properly in preparation of their next visit.

On the other hand, you can still leave them out, just in case of old or injured hummingbirds that can’t migrate during winter.

Where Do New York Hummingbirds Go In The Winter?

When these tiny birds depart from New York, they embark on a journey southward, making their way to Central America. They can even travel further south in search of winter habitats that suit their needs.

Conclusion

Conclusively, the arrival of these delightful birds can be somewhat unpredictable, with initial sightings often occurring in Southern and Western New York before they gradually move to Upstate New York. So if you’re yet to see them, don’t worry! All you need do is make your environment a welcoming haven for these special birds. And if you’re lucky, they just might return some other time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hummingbirds in New York

Q: When do hummingbirds typically depart New York?

A: Hummingbirds usually leave New York around late September to early October as summer comes to a close.

Q: Why do hummingbirds migrate from New York?

A: Hummingbirds migrate due to reduced food availability and colder weather in New York during the winter months. They fly southward in search of warmer climates and more abundant food sources.

Q: Which regions do hummingbirds from New York migrate to during winter?

A: These birds journey southward to Central America and possibly even further to find suitable wintering grounds.

Q: Which hummingbird species are common in New York?

A: In New York, commonly found hummingbird species include the Ruby-throated, Rufous, Calliope, Broad-billed, and Anna’s hummingbirds.

Q: How can one differentiate between male and female Ruby-throated hummingbirds?

A: Male Ruby-throated hummingbirds have a vibrant ruby-red throat and bright green back feathers, while females lack the red throat and have slightly paler green back feathers.

Q: When is the spring migration period for hummingbirds in New York?

A: The spring migration period for the Ruby-throated hummingbirds in New York typically starts from late April to mid-May.

Q: How do weather patterns influence the migration of hummingbirds in New York?

A: Weather conditions can alter the migratory pattern of hummingbirds. These birds migrate to locate regions with warmer climates and greater food supplies.

Q: What types of native flowers should one plant in New York to attract hummingbirds?

A: Native plants like impatiens, lupines, petunias, bee balm, daylilies, cleomes, and columbines are nectar-producing and ideal for attracting hummingbirds.

Q: What can be an alternative source of nectar for hummingbirds in areas with limited garden space?

A: For those with limited space, nectar feeders filled with a sugar water solution (20% white sugar to 80% water) serve as an alternative source of nectar for hummingbirds.

Q: Can you still spot Ruby-throated hummingbirds in New York during winter?

A: Yes, even during winter, the Ruby-throated hummingbird can be found in New York as the major migratory species of the state.

Q: How do Calliope Hummingbirds and Rufous Hummingbirds differ in appearance from Broad-tailed Hummingbirds?

A: Typically, Rufous Hummingbirds have bright orange and green plumage, Calliope Hummingbirds are the smallest bird in North America with streaked throats, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds exhibit iridescent green upperparts and rosy gorgets.

Q: When should hummingbird lovers in New York put out their feeders to welcome the spring migration?

A: Hummingbird lovers should hang their feeders by late April, just in time for the arrival of the first set of male hummingbirds.

Q: How do male and female hummingbirds differ in their timing of migration to breeding grounds in New York?

A: Male hummingbirds typically arrive in New York in late April or early May to establish their breeding territories, while the females join them about 2 weeks later in mid-May.

Q: How do Broad-billed Hummingbirds and Black-chinned hummingbirds compare in terms of hummingbird sightings in New York?

A: Both Broad-billed and Black-chinned hummingbirds have distinct appearances and behaviours but are less commonly seen in New York compared to the Ruby-throated species.

Q: Is it advisable to leave hummingbird feeders out during winter in New York?

A: While many hummingbirds migrate during winter, leaving feeders out can be beneficial for old or injured birds that might remain.

Q: How does the availability of food in the summer months influence hummingbird migration in New York?

A: As summer ends, food supplies, mainly nectar from flowers and insects, diminish in New York, prompting hummingbirds to embark on their southward migration journey.

Q: When and where are the initial sightings of hummingbirds generally reported in New York during their migratory journey?

A: Initial hummingbird sightings during their migratory journey are often reported in Southern and Western New York.

Q: Are hummingbirds considered backyard birds in New York?

A: Yes, hummingbirds can be considered backyard birds in New York, especially when gardens are cultivated with native flowers and feeders to attract them.

Q: How do weather patterns in North America impact the average arrival dates of hummingbirds in New York?

A: The average arrival dates of hummingbirds can be influenced by North American weather patterns, especially if there are any abrupt changes in temperature or other conditions.

Q: How can one ensure the health of baby hummingbirds and adult hummingbirds when providing a nectar source in their backyard?

A: To ensure the health of both baby and adult hummingbirds, it’s crucial to change the nectar in feeders every few days, particularly in hot weather, and to avoid the use of chemicals and pesticides in gardens.

Q: How do changes in daylight affect the migration of hummingbirds in New York?

A: Changes in daylight play a significant role in signalling birds, including hummingbirds, to begin their migratory journey. As the days shorten in late summer and early fall, hummingbirds in New York prepare to head south in search of warmer climates.

Useful Links:

Related Posts to Read: Hummingbirds Migrations:

• Best Hummingbird Feeders.
• When Do Hummingbirds Leave Ohio?
• When Do Hummingbirds Leave Michigan?
• When Do Hummingbirds Leave Pennsylvania?
• When Do Hummingbirds Leave Florida?
• When Do Hummingbirds Leave Oregon?

Related Posts to Read: Hummingbirds Availability by Locations:

• Are there Hummingbirds in Albuquerque?
• Are There Hummingbirds in Arizona?
• Are there Hummingbirds in Alberta?
• Are There Hummingbirds In Alabama?
• Are There Hummingbirds In Mexico?
• Are There Hummingbirds In The Caribbean?
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• Are There Hummingbirds In New Jersey?
• Are There Hummingbirds In New York?

References:

• About Hummingbird (Wikipedia).
• About New York (Link)
• Greenewalt, C. H. (1960). Hummingbirds. New York: Doubleday. Google Scholar.
• Carey C. The impacts of climate change on the annual cycles of birds. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2009 Nov 27; 364(1534):3321-30. doi: 10.1098/rstb.2009.0182. PMID: 19833644; PMCID: PMC2781852.