One of the biggest questions on our lips come springtime is, when do hummingbirds come back to Texas? Hummingbirds in Texas embark on two migratory journeys each year: in spring and in fall. Once the spring migration is underway, thousands of the tiny creatures will take to the skies as they prepare to spend the breeding season in the U.S. and Canada. Spring in Texas is a magical time even if you ignore the arrival of these bejeweled little creatures, but catching a glimpse of them makes the season even more wonderful! Do you have a hummingbird feeder out in your yard? If not you’ll want to put out one of the best hummingbird feeders this spring. It’s a great way to ensure you’ll get to spot these quick little creatures. Here’s everything you need to know about the hummingbird migration in Texas:

Hummingbirds are the smallest type of bird on earth by an overwhelming margin, measuring between two and five inches in length. Their name refers to wings that make a distinct buzzing sound due to beating up to 80 times per minute.
C Watts/Flickr
Due to their light size and fast wing speed, hummingbirds can travel enormous distances. A hummingbird can fly up to 1,300 miles in one stretch. They may be small, but they're strong!
As evidenced by this 1899 painting, hummingbirds are quite a diverse entourage. In fact, there are currently over 300 recognized species, but only about a dozen regularly migrate northward into the U.S. and Canada.
Ernst Haekel/Wikipedia
You're bound to see a few different species of hummingbird this spring, all with different colors and plumages.
Breeding occurs during the spring, which means it's a race to the best feeding territories. The striking Anna’s Hummingbird has a clear advantage, as it remains on the West Coast year-round.
Norvig/Wikipedia

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Hummingbirds migrate two times a year, once in the fall and then again in the spring. Spring migration is already underway down south, and here in Oklahoma, we'll soon get to see them too.
Jebbles via Wikimedia Commons
Hummingbirds travel across a huge expanse of land during their migration, but they're hardworking travelers. A hummingbird can fly up to 1,300 miles in one stretch. Though they're one of the smallest and most delicate birds in the world, they're powerhouses when it comes to travel.
You may be wondering how you can spot hummingbirds in Texas on their migration. To attract hummingbirds and replenish their nutrient stores, put a feeder outside your home! Not only are they adorable to look at, but keeping them well-fed also supports the completion of their migration.
k.draper / Flickr
You don't have to purchase anything fancy, just a basic hummingbird feeder like those from Etsy will do. Make sure to just use plain sugar and water in your feeder - no dye is necessary. The red dye that some people use can harm the little creatures. It's best to stick as close to their natural food source as possible.
Many offspring will result from a successful season. After growing into adult birds, they'll migrate back southward for winter and begin the whole process all over again.
Mike's Birds from Riverside, CA, US, via Wikimedia Commons
It's a very quick process for hummingbirds. The offspring that are born in the spring will be ready to migrate back with the adults in the fall.
Aren't these little guys just the cutest things? Fun fact: hummingbirds have the highest metabolic rate of any animal and consume up to half their weight in nectar each day!
DC Gardens / Flickr
That's all the more reason to put out a feeder, these guys need to be eating near constantly to sustain that high rate of movement.

Are you looking forward to seeing hummingbirds in Dallas or any other part of Texas this year? While awaiting their arrival, check out this great video of a stunning male Anna’s hummingbird:

If you’re looking for more information about the fall hummingbird migration in Texas check out our featured article about this epic flight to Mexico.

What do you think is the best time to see hummingbirds in Texas? Do you plan to leave out hummingbird feeders this year? If you have ever witnessed a hummingbird migration let us know in the comments section — we love to hear about your first-hand experiences with these miraculous tiny birds.

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Hummingbirds In Texas

CC | February 21, 2024

What types of hummingbirds are in Texas?

Although the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is one of the most common in the United States, you’ll probably see some of the following hummingbird species around the state during the spring migration.

  • Broad-tailed Hummingbird
  • Black-chinned Hummingbird
  • Calliope Hummingbird
  • Allen’s Hummingbird
  • Anna’s Hummingbird
  • Ruby-throated Hummingbird
  • Rufous Hummingbird
  • Lucifer sheartail

 

When should I hang a hummingbird feeder in Texas?

Most people put their hummingbird feeders out in the spring when the bulk of the birds are heading north. But if you’d like to feed the year-round birds, consider keeping yours out during the winter months as well. Regardless of what you choose, be sure to set out the best hummingbird feeders for your visitors.

Is it safe to feed hummingbirds in Texas?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to feed hummingbirds in Texas. In fact, they’re going to need fuel for the rest of their journey. So, unlike feeding other wildlife which can be frowned upon, you are helping these tiny creatures get the energy they need to continue their long journey.

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