Hummingbirds make two migratory journeys every year: one in the fall and then again in the spring. Their spring migration is already underway and luckily for us, they’ll be stopping by New Orleans as they make their way further north for the breeding season across the United States and into Canada. If you’re wondering when will hummingbirds arrive in New Orleans, we’ve got you covered. The only thing you need to do is prepare one of the best hummingbird feeders for the occasion. Here’s everything you need to know if you’d like to attract these colorful little hummingbirds in New Orleans to your yard:

Measuring anywhere between 3-5 inches long, they’re the smallest birds on the planet, and they might just be the cutest, too.
Jeffreyw/Wikimedia
Because of their small size and quick movement, hummingbirds are easy to miss. But if you're lucky enough to spot one of these babies, it's a magical experience.
Unlike other birds, hummingbirds don’t travel in large flocks and prefer to travel solo. They can travel for up to 500 miles at a time!
Hummingbirds Pots/Facebook
When you learn that, their migratory patterns don't seem quite as strenuous.
Each year, they make two annual migrations, and they’re on their way back from their winter in Mexico. Their migration begins in mid-March and continues until the beginning of April.
Hummingbirds Pots/Facebook
In recent years the hummingbird migratory patterns have changed slightly. As the weather in North America warms, hummingbirds are coming back to the continent earlier and in some cases spending the winters here.
So, when do hummingbirds come back to New Orleans? As of mid-February 2024, they've already been spotted around the southeastern part of the country.
Hummingbird Central
This means it's go-time for thousands of hummingbirds to make their way north if they're not already here!

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There are several different species of hummingbirds.
Hummingbirds Pots/Facebook
Each one seems to be more beautiful than the next!
Hummingbirds Pots/Facebook
As you spot hummingbirds during the migration, you'll notice lots of different colorings and plumage types. Each hummingbird is unique and they have a wide range of colors in their feathers.
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the most commonly seen hummingbird here in New Orleans, but you may also catch a glimpse of the Rufous hummingbird, too.
Hummingbirds Pots/Facebook
It’s easy to spot the males with their bright red feathers around their throats.
Lara Eakins/Flickr
The females, pictured below, are much more subtle.
Michelle Lynn Reynolds/Wikimedia
If you want to attract them to your yard, you’ll need to put some feeders up.

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to DIY your own nectar. All you’ll need is to mix 1 part sugar to 4 parts water and you’ve got the perfect nectar to attract these beautiful little fellas to your yard. Just be sure not to add any food coloring or other unnatural ingredients. You want to keep it as close to their natural diet as possible. A red feeder is also eye catching for the birds and planting tubular flowers (a preference for the hummingbird) can help attract even more to your backyard. The best time to leave out hummingbird feeders in New Orleans is just before their arrival. However, since some have already been spotted, you better get them out now if you haven't already!

Have you already spotted hummingbirds in New Orleans? What type of nectar do you use? Share your recipe with us in the comments below! We love hearing first-hand accounts from our readers.

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Hummingbirds in New Orleans

CC | February 19, 2023

What types of hummingbirds are in New Orleans?

As we mentioned, the ruby-throated hummingbird is the most typical, but there are some other species you might spot in New Orleans during the migration.

  • Ruby-throated Hummingbird
  • Rufous Hummingbird
  • Anna’s Hummingbird
  • Black-chinned Hummingbird
  • Calliope Hummingbird
  • Broad-tailed hummingbird

 

When should I hang a hummingbird feeder in New Orleans?

If you want to cater to the year-rounders, consider keeping your feeder out during colder months as well. Or stick with tradition, which dictates people put out their feeders in springtime. Whatever you choose, you’ll want to find the best hummingbird feeders for the migration period.

Is it safe to feed hummingbirds in New Orleans?

It is absolutely safe to feed hummingbirds in New Orleans. In order to fly 500 miles at a time, these beauties need lots of energy.

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