When should I bring in my feeder?

I decided to address some common questions heard this time of year. When should I bring in my feeder? If I leave it out too long, will the hummingbirds be confused and miss the window of opportunity to migrate safely? I asked our good friend Susan Campbell, Hummingbird Researcher and Bander to offer her insight. In a recent email, she stated the following:

“This question is one that comes up all the time in reference to hummingbirds and feeding. The fact is that you need not take feeders down in order for hummingbirds (or any other migratory birds for that matter) to migrate. They will leave when their bodies tell them it is time to go–based on day length. At this time of year, their hormones are reacting to the shortening days such that they are eating more, will get restless and eventually leave. When they go it will not be because of food availability or weather but as a result of their body chemistry.

… here in south central NC, the last of the migrating Ruby-throated Hummingbirds will pass early to mid-October. It is best to leave a feeder up for at least a week after you see the last hummingbird–just so that it is available for any stragglers that may show up.”

I hope our readers find this helpful.
Happy feeding.
Anne

1 comment September 8th, 2006