The hummingbirds are leaving Wisconsin for the year. Where are they going? Here’s what we know about their annual migration
Picture this: You’re sitting outside with a slice of watermelon under the shade of neighboring trees. Suddenly, a buzz by your ear alerts you to one of Wisconsin’s tiniest visitors: the hummingbird.
As it nears the end of August, hummingbirds are migrating to warmer weather after summering in the Midwest. Wisconsinites have long been fascinated by the tiny bird, and many place feeders in their yard in hopes of brief sightings.
"They're very common around homes and backyards because of all the hummingbird feeders that are put out and all the flowering plants that are in people's yards," said David Drake, University of Wisconsin Madison professor and Extension wildlife specialist. "They're just super cool birds."
As the hummingbirds start to head south, here are some answers about their migration.
When do hummingbirds migrate?
Hummingbirds start leaving at a steady rate in late August and are completely gone by Oct. 1. There have been sightings in November, but those are rare, Drake said.
The male birds will start to arrive in the state in March or April, and the females will follow soon after.
More: Here’s how to share your yard with these tiny, beloved birds.
Where do they go?
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the only species that nest in the state. In fall, they fly to Mexico or Central America.
Drake said the birds fly during the daytime in tailwinds, and travel about 20 to 25 miles a day. Some even cross the Gulf of Mexico — a 500-mile uninterrupted flight. He said that birds flying long expanses without a break will often "fall out."
"They get to the other side of the water and they're just exhausted and they literally fall out of the sky," Drake said. "Then they recoup their energy, refuel, get their wings under them for a couple days, and they'll continue on their journey."
More: Are you tired of being attacked by bloodthirsty mosquitoes? Try creating a dragonfly garden.
What do they eat?
Before they migrate south, Drake said the tiny birds pack on 25% to 40% extra weight in preparation for the journey.
Ruby-throated hummingbirds can be seen frequently in backyards, feeding on nectar and occasionally small insects. Drake said they will drink sugar water from feeders as well, and they are attracted to the color red.
"I have cardinal flower in my garden and some different types of black-eyed Susans," Drake said. "They'll feed on anything that's flowering right now."
Lydia Morrell can be reached at 320-444-2339 or lmorrell@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @lydia_morrell.
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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Hummingbirds are migrating from Wisconsin; here's what that means
