Oregon is home to seven species of hummingbirds: Anna’s hummingbirds, which live in Oregon all year long, and Rufous, Allen’s, Black-chinned, Costa’s, Broad-tailed, and Calliope hummingbirds. The six migratory species that move down south for the winter are all coming back soon, and there’s one species in particular that you’ll see in droves. That’s right, it’s time to prepare your best hummingbird feeders for the thousands of beautiful birds heading our way. If you’re wondering, “When do hummingbirds come back to Oregon?” — read on!

Hummingbirds are found all over Oregon, from remote mountains to our city parks and backyards.
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While several species live here, at least for part of the year, the Rufous hummingbird is the most plentiful.
These pretty little birds typically arrive in Oregon in March and early April.
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Visit www.hummingbird-guide.com to see their current migration pattern! Interestingly, hummingbirds are starting to migrate back to the United States earlier and earlier in the spring due to the overall warming of the climate. Climate and food accessibility are the two motivating factors when it comes to hummingbird migration.
Have your camera ready, because they're definitely photogenic little creatures!
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The males have a glossy, reddish-orange throat patch; females have a white-speckled patch at their throats. Each different species of hummingbird has its own unique coloring and plumage, making it like a rainbow of tiny, stunning birds when the season comes around.
These tiny birds are just eight centimeters long, and the largest ones weigh just over 1.5 ounces.
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They are tiny but tough -- hummingbirds fly more than 2,000 miles during their migration. In fact, they can fly up to 23 miles in one day if needed. That explains why their wings are moving so quickly!

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They come to Oregon during breeding season and build their nests in conifers and shrubs.
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Rufous hummingbirds might be small, but they're fearless.
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They're often seen chasing other birds away from feeders, and they can be fiercely territorial. It probably helps that they can zoom away from danger quickly.
Hummingbirds need to consume one-third to one-half of their body weight in nectar every day to keep up with their incredibly rapid metabolisms.
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They love nectar-producing flowers, so if you want to see them in your yard, consider planting different varieties that bloom throughout the year, It's easy to provide your teeny little guests with some tasty food. Hummingbirds are also drawn to tubular flowers that perfectly fit their long beaks.
Another good way to bring hummingbirds into your yard is by installing a bird feeder on a tree branch.
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Hummingbirds (like butterflies) are particularly drawn to the color red. But don't put any dye in the food itself. While it hasn't been proven that food dye is bad for hummingbirds, it's safest to keep the feeder filled with whatever is closest to their natural food source, in this case, that means sugar water which mimics nectar.
You can buy commercially prepared nectar or make your own.
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To make your own nectar, mix together one cup of sugar and four cups of water. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds to keep it free from mold. Once it's cooled, pour it into a clean feeder and change it out every few days to ensure that it's fresh and safe for the birds.

If you have a lot of hummingbirds in your area, hang several feeders. Just place them far apart so the birds won't fight over them.

Now that we’ve answered the question, “When is the best time to see Hummingbirds in Oregon?” it’s time to get ready for their arrival! Do you have a hummingbird feeder in your yard? We’d love to see your hummingbird photos! And if you love birding like we do, check out these delightful backyard birding flashcards from REI.

For more on this year’s hummingbird migration, check out this helpful guide. And to learn more about the species of hummingbirds found in Oregon, and hear a sound clip of their calls on the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife’s website.

And for more springtime fun, definitely plan a visit to this beautiful dahlia farm in Oregon.

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Hummingbirds In Oregon

CC | February 21, 2023

What types of hummingbirds are in Oregon?

Although you’re likely to spot the Rufous hummingbirds most often during this year’s migration, you might also see these species of hummingbird flitting around Oregon this spring.

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

 

When is the best time to leave out hummingbird feeders in Oregon?

Feel free to leave your hummingbird feeder out year round to feed the species of hummingbird that stays in state during the winter. Otherwise, put your feeder out in the spring when most birds come to town. The most important thing is that you’ll want to find the best hummingbird feeders for the hungry birds.

Is it safe to feed hummingbirds in Oregon?

It is absolutely safe to feed hummingbirds in Oregon. You’re doing them a solid, really, after that long trip up from South America.

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