As summer comes to a close, millions of hummingbirds begin their incredible fall migration—some traveling thousands of miles from the United States all the way to Central and South America. As gardeners, we have a unique opportunity to help these tiny, energetic birds fuel up for their journey. A few thoughtful actions can make a big difference in ensuring they have the resources they need to safely reach their winter homes.
Keep Nectar Feeders Out Longer
One of the easiest ways to support migrating hummingbirds is to keep your feeders up well into the fall. Many gardeners take them down too early, fearing that the birds won’t migrate if food is available. The truth is, migration is triggered by daylight length, not food sources. Leave feeders out for at least two weeks after you spot your last hummingbird—there are often late stragglers that depend on that energy boost.
Offer Homemade Nectar – The Safe Way
Store-bought nectar is convenient, but making your own is simple and cost-effective. Mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water and boil until dissolved. Skip red dyes, as they can harm the birds. Clean and refill feeders every 3–5 days (more often in hot weather) to prevent harmful mold and bacteria from growing.
Plant Late-Blooming Flowers
Flowers are a critical fuel source during migration. Adding late-blooming nectar plants ensures hummingbirds have plenty of natural food sources. Great options include salvia, bee balm, cardinal flower, Mexican sunflower, and zinnias. Group plants together to create a visible "fueling station" that will draw more visitors.
Provide Shelter and Perching Spots
Hummingbirds need safe resting places between feedings. Trees, shrubs, and even tall ornamental grasses can offer shelter from predators and wind. Consider adding small branches or installing a hummingbird swing near feeders to give them a place to perch and conserve energy.
Maintain a Water Source
These tiny birds need water for drinking and bathing. A shallow birdbath, misting fountain, or dripper is perfect for hummingbirds, especially during hot, dry fall days. Place water sources near flowers and feeders for easy access.
Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides and herbicides can harm hummingbirds directly and reduce the insect population they rely on for protein. Choose natural pest control methods instead. A healthy insect population is especially important during migration when birds need extra protein to maintain their strength.
Watch and Record Your Visitors
Citizen science projects like Journey North allow gardeners to report hummingbird sightings and track migration patterns. Keeping a log of when you see your first and last hummingbird each season can also help you better time your garden efforts year after year.
Wrap-Up: Your Garden Can Make a Difference
Helping migrating hummingbirds is simple but impactful. By keeping feeders filled, growing nectar-rich flowers, and providing safe rest stops, you turn your backyard into a crucial pit stop on their epic journey. These small efforts not only benefit the birds but also bring more magic to your fall garden.
