Houston’s gardens are filled with the three most common species of hummingbirds: ruby-throated, black-сhinned, and rufous hummingbirds. It’s tough to notice these tiny creatures; however, there is a proven way to attract them. Planting your garden with nectar plants induces these tiny creatures to visit your place and even to return the following year.
Hummingbird season in Houston
Typically, hummingbirds make their way to Houston in spring during their northern migration. Most of them come back in August or early September for their southern migration. However, you can even spot a small percentage of hummingbirds during the summer and winter months.
When do hummingbirds come to Houston?
Ruby-throated hummingbirds prefer visiting Houston during fall and spring migrations (August–October and March–May). They can even stay there and breed in the summer. Rufous hummingbirds can be spotted in winter from mid-October, well into March. Black-chinned hummingbirds are relatively common in winter as well.
The best plants to attract and feed hummingbirds
If you want to spot hummingbirds more often, you should know which plants these tiny creatures prefer. Here is a list of the most common hummingbirds' food: firebush, butterfly weed, esperanza, turk's cap, and autumn sage. When creating a hummingbird garden, you should pay attention to the times of year various flowers bloom. Since many birds arrive in Houston in the autumn and winter, it's essential to have flowers during these seasons.
Practical info
What are the most common hummingbird species in Houston?
The ruby-throated, black-chinned, and rufous hummingbirds are the most common species seen in Houston. These tiny birds are attracted by nectar plants and can also be lured with feeders. Keep a lookout for them as they dart between flowers all over town. Show more
What is the best time of year to spot hummingbirds in Houston?
Spring is the best time to spot hummingbirds in Houston as they migrate north. In August and early September, you can catch them moving south again. However, a small percentage of hummingbirds show up in the summer and winter months. You can spot rufous hummingbirds in winter from mid-October up till March, and black-chinned hummingbirds are also quite common in winter. Show more
What are the ideal plants for attracting hummingbirds in Houston?
Firebush, butterfly weed, esperanza, turk's cap, and autumn sage are the top hummingbird-friendly plants in Houston. These plants attract hummingbirds, especially during autumn and winter seasons, so it's crucial to have flowering plants during this period to lure them to your garden. With a bit of luck, they may even nest in your yard and keep coming back for years. Show more
What is the percentage of hummingbirds present in Houston during summer and winter months?
Although not as frequent as during spring and fall migrations, hummingbirds can still be seen in Houston during summer and winter months. Some hummingbirds return during summer, while others visit during their southern migration from August to early September. Rufous hummingbirds can be sighted from mid-October to March during winter, with black-chinned hummingbirds being more common in winter season. Show more
Can hummingbirds visit a garden year after year?
Hummingbirds can revisit the same garden year after year as they are habitual creatures. They require adequate food sources throughout the year, as well as nesting materials to build their nests. You can increase your chances of attracting them by planting hummingbird-friendly plants or using a feeder. With ongoing care and patience, you too can have hummingbirds visit your garden every year. Show more
