More than 300 hummer species are found in the world, and 27 species nestle in the US. Ruby-throated hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) are the only species that breeds in Illinois. They typically winter south between Mexico and Panama and start their spring migration in January or February, moving north across the eastern US up to the Canadian border. You can encounter these mesmerizing tiny birds in the Land of Lincoln between May and September, and sometimes slightly beyond. The highest activity is observed in late summer and early fall when northernmost breeders join locals on their way back south.
Hummingbirds are well-known for being the smallest birds in the world. An adult ruby-throat is shorter than 4 in (10 cm) from bill to tail and weighs around 0.1 oz (3 g). Can you imagine the proportions of the chicks? A hummer nest resembles the size of a golf ball and typically contains a couple of pea-like eggs. If you happen to spot a well-camouflaged nest, you are super lucky! Try to look for one in Cook County woodlands or Dupage County within Chicago metropolitan area. Chicago Botanical Garden boasts frequent hummingbird sightings. However, some birds stay in Central and Southern Illinois too.
Traditionally, the best way to increase your chances of watching the hummers by your side is to put out a feeder, better several, filled with sugar water. The solution is made from one part sugar and four parts water. The artificial nectar doesn't need any red colorants, as the birds are attracted to the bright feeder base itself. You will have to clean and refill the feeders at least once a week in cooler weather and every three days in warmer weather.
Practical info
When is the best time to observe hummingbirds in Illinois?
Hummingbirds can be observed in Illinois from May through September, and northern breeders join locals in late summer and fall, making it the ideal time for hummingbird activity. These birds will only stay in Illinois for a short time, so it's important to take full advantage of their visits. Show more
Where is the most likely place to spot a hummingbird nest in Illinois?
Although hummingbird nests are well-camouflaged, they can sometimes be found in Chicago's Cook County woodlands or Dupage County. Frequent sightings also occur at the renowned Chicago Botanical Garden in their gardens. Keep your eyes trained and binoculars at the ready. Show more
How many species of hummingbirds can be found in Illinois?
Illinois is home to one species of hummingbird -- the Ruby-throated hummingbird. These tiny birds migrate from Mexico to Panama in winter and then make their way north through the eastern US as far as the Canadian border, moving through Illinois in the springtime. Show more
What is the migration pattern of the ruby-throated hummingbird species in Illinois?
The migration pattern of the ruby-throated hummingbird species in Illinois starts in January or February when these birds begin their journey north across the eastern US, reaching the Canadian border. In their breeding grounds in northernmost Illinois, ruby-throated hummingbirds mate with locals and migrate south in late summer and fall. Show more
What is the best way to attract hummingbirds to your yard in Illinois?
To attract hummingbirds to your Illinois yard, simply put out multiple feeders full of a solution made of one part sugar, four parts water, and no colorants. The birds will be attracted to the bright feeder base. Clean and refill the feeders every three days in warmer weather and once a week in cooler weather. Show more
