Best time to travel to Kansas

Hummingbirds in Kansas

Ruby-throated hummingbirds are common in eastern Kansas

Best time: April–September

Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds
Ruby-throated hummingbird

Hummingbirds are the smallest migrating birds in North America and some of the most interesting flying creatures to observe. A few of over 300 hummingbird species could be spotted in Kansas during the warmer time of the year from April, well into September. The most common species is the ruby-throated hummingbird. The second place is occupied by rufous hummingbirds, migrating through the state in the spring and fall. Broad-tailed hummingbirds are also seen occasionally. Rarely seen hummingbird species include calliope, Anna's, Costa's, and broad-billed.

Hummingbirds in Kansas

Ruby-throated hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) usually nest in pine, hardwood, or mixed woods. It's especially abundant in the eastern and southeastern parts of Kansas, in the Kansas City area, near Wichita, as well as along the border with Oklahoma and Missouri. Male birds can be recognized due to their ruby throats, emerald feathers, and a white collar. Females have white feathers with some streaks of pale green.

When hummingbirds return to Kansas

Ruby-throated hummingbirds usually spend their winter in tropical countries of Central America. They start to arrive in Kansas in early April when the warm weather finally sets in. Males are usually the first to arrive, while females get to their breeding grounds a few weeks later. Breeding and nesting season for hummingbirds occurs during June and July, which is the best time to spot them.

When hummingbirds leave Kansas

Male hummingbirds start their migration south right after breeding and nesting. Female hummingbirds leave for the tropics during late August and September, followed by young birds that usually leave by mid-October. The tiny hummingbirds cover about 20 miles (32 km) in one day.

The best way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is to purchase a hummingbird feeder and fill it with sugary water. Tiny birds are also drawn to tubular flowers, such as hostas, hibiscus, or morning glory. A hummingbird visits from 1,000 to 2,000 flowers per day.

Practical info

Where are ruby-throated, Rufous, broad-tailed, and rare species of hummingbirds found in Kansas?

Ruby-throated hummingbirds are commonly found in eastern and southeastern parts of Kansas. Rufous hummingbirds are seen migrating through the state in the spring and fall. Broad-tailed hummingbirds are occasionally seen in the state. Kansas may also experience some rare species of hummingbirds such as calliope, Anna's, Costa's, and broad-billed hummingbirds. Show more

Which are the common species of hummingbirds in Kansas?

The ruby-throated hummingbird is the most common species of hummingbird found in Kansas. The male hummingbirds have brilliant colors with a ruby throat, emerald feathers, and a white collar, while the female has green streaks with white feathers. The state also has some other species such as Rufous hummingbirds and occasionally seen broad-tailed hummingbirds. Kansas may occasionally experience some rare species of hummingbirds such as calliope, Anna's, Costa's, and broad-billed hummingbirds. Show more

When do hummingbirds migrate to Kansas?

Hummingbirds usually migrate towards Kansas during early April as the warm weather sets in. Male hummingbirds tend to arrive first, followed by females a few weeks later. During June and July, breeding and nesting season occurs, which is the best time to spot hummingbirds in Kansas. After breeding and nesting season, male hummingbirds migrate south. Females and young hummingbirds tend to leave Kansas by mid-October. Show more

What is the best time to view hummingbirds in Kansas?

The best time to view hummingbirds in Kansas is from June and July when breeding and nesting season takes place. The male hummingbirds' bright colors get more brilliant during this season, and they tend to dance more actively. The ruby-throated hummingbirds can be found from April to September. Female hummingbirds leave for the tropics late August and September while young birds tend to leave by mid-October. Show more

How can I make my garden attractive to hummingbirds in Kansas?

To make your garden attractive to hummingbirds in Kansas, purchase a hummingbird feeder and fill it with sugar water. Planting tubular-shaped flowers such as morning glory, hibiscus, and hostas can also attract hummingbirds. They are attracted to brightly colored flowers and typically visit between 1,000 to 2,000 flowers per day. Consider planting exotic and native wildflowers to provide nectar throughout the mating season. Show more

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen