Hummingbird migration map (last updated April 8, 2025) courtesy of Hummingbird Central. By Jim Wilson, Birder and Adkins Arboretum Volunteer. “I track the migration of ruby-throated hummingbirds, and observed that one early-bird crossed the Gulf of Mexico and arrived on the Alabama coast on February 23, with many more arriving three weeks later. The Hummingbird Central website tracks the movement of several hummingbird species. The map pictured is a screenshot of the website’s interactive map. Each red hummingbird represents a reported sighting. On the website, you can click on a red bird and see where and when it was seen. The ruby-throat closest to Adkins Arboretum was seen in Easton, Maryland on April 4. The recent warm southerly winds certainly facilitated their movement. Males typically arrive first to claim territory with females arriving a week later. These birds have amazing navigation abilities and will return to the same area, and most likely to the same yard, where they were born or spent the previous year. If you think you recognize the hummers that show up to your feeder, they are probably the same ones you had the previous year. Now’s the time to get your hummingbird feeders ready. If you want to attract more hummers to your yard, consider putting up more than one feeder. Most importantly, situate the feeders so ultra-territorial males cannot see each other when feeding. Homemade hummingbird nectar is easy to make and much cheaper than store-bought nectar. The formula for nectar is: 4 parts water to one part sugar. For example, use 1 cup water and 1/4 cup white sugar. Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye. Mix the sugar until dissolved. (Guidance now says you do not need to boil the water.) If you do put your feeders out for early arrivals, consider offering just a couple of ounces. Unused nectar can be stored in the refrigerator. Nectar should be changed every 3–4 days in cool weather and every 2–3 days in hot weather. If your nectar becomes cloudy, it is overdue for changing. For safety, clean the feeder each time you change the nectar. I hope you enjoy the hummers this Summer because before you know it, the males will begin to head south in late August.”