Spring migration (late February–late April)
Every spring, hundreds of ruby-throated hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) return to Louisiana and neighboring southern states after wintering in Mexico and Central America. The species is the only local breeder that often favors the areas east of the Mississippi. The earliest sightings along the gulf coast might occur in late January, increasing by late February around such cities as New Orleans or Baton Rouge. The migration swells in March and winds down by the end of April, as a large quantity continue to move north across the eastern US well through Canada.
Fall migration (early July–early October)
As northern breeders are done with their business, southbound migrants start showing up in Louisiana shortly after the 4th of July. You can see swarms of hummers gathering around the feeders in September when the birds fatten up before the long and grueling journey across the hundreds of miles of the Gulf of Mexico, where food is non-existent for these birds. The last stragglers typically leave in early October.
Meet the hummers in-person—host them in your own yard!
If you like to have a close up look at a hummingbird and at the same time assist the tiny creatures on the move, set up a feeder in your garden. Stick to strict but simple rules: make a solution of 1/4 cup of sugar and a cup of water; don't add red coloring, as the birds don't need to consume unnatural chemicals; and keep the feeder clean and the water fresh, particularly in hot weather.
Last but not least—don't take the feeders down in October when the hummingbird season is seemingly over. If possible, provide some nourishment for winter vagrants, which have become all too frequent visitors lately. For unknown reasons, a number of western hummers refuse to migrate further south and rather stay in coastal Louisiana over the colder period. Sporadically, you can spot rufous (Selasphorus rufus), Allen's (Selasphorus sasin), Anna's (Calypte anna), black-chinned (Archilochus alexandri), broad-tailed (Selasphorus platycercus), buff-bellied (Amazilia yucatanensis), calliope (Selasphorus calliope), and broad-billed (Cynanthus latirostris) hummingbirds. Moreover, some of the beloved ruby-throated hummers might likewise remain here all year.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Louisiana for hummingbird migration?
From late February through early October, Louisiana offers the best time to witness hummingbird migration. Hundreds of ruby-throated hummingbirds flock the state in spring between the months of February to April. During fall, you can witness hummingbirds gathering around the feeders in September and October before leaving for their long journey across the Gulf of Mexico. Show more
Where is the best place to spot hummingbirds in Louisiana during the fall migration?
In Louisiana, during fall, hummingbirds usually gather around feeders in backyards. Southern Louisiana, including Baton Rouge and New Orleans, offers plenty of opportunities to spot them in parks, gardens, or nature reserves, as the birds gather food fat before their migration. Hummingbirds in hundreds come from the north to feed before the migration. Show more
How can I attract hummingbirds to my backyard in Louisiana?
If you seek hummingbirds' attention to your backyard in Louisiana, the simplest thing is to fill a feeder with a solution that includes 1/4 cupsugar and a cup of water. Avoid adding artificial red coloring, which can be harmful. Ensure proper cleaning of the feeder and fresh water as hummingbirds need to stay hydrated and healthy throughout. Show more
When should I take down hummingbird feeders in Louisiana?
You shouldn't take down hummingbird feeders in Louisiana once the season is over in October. While most hummingbirds leave for their migration, the place welcomes winter vagrants, including varieties of western hummingbird species. Some ruby-throated hummingbirds also remain in the state throughout the year, so it's better to provide them with some nourishment during winter to take care of their sustenance. Show more
What types of hummingbirds can I expect to see in Louisiana during the winter months?
While hummingbirds usually migrate south before winter, some prefer to stay, making Louisiana witness to a few species. Western hummingbirds, including rufous, Allen's, Anna's, black-chinned, broad-tailed, buff-bellied, calliope, and broad-billed hummingbirds, usually stay back in winters. The state also hosts some ruby-throated hummingbirds that opt to stay all year round. Show more
