Hummingbird chat is tough to have without feeling giddy! Any meaning of the term “impressive” would apply to these birds. They are the tiniest birds on earth, have the finest flying abilities, are incredibly attractive, and travel hundreds of kilometers by themselves twice a year. Is it surprising that everyone is curious about their arrival time? It’s a significant deal that they’ve returned to the north. When do when do hummingbirds arrive in Maryland? Let’s find out.
Maryland Region
From Assateague Island National Seashore to Ocean City Beach, there are plenty of beaches where you can lay out and relax or engage in some water sports fun. The Eastern Shore of Maryland also offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and swimming, as well as fishing and crabbing. And don’t forget to take advantage of some delicious seafood while you’re there. The Maryland hummingbird season is filled with activity and excitement like this all across the state.
The annual hummingbird return timeline for Maryland is varied, depending on where you live in the state. Let’s investigate when do hummingbirds arrive in Maryland.
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When Do Hummingbirds Arrive In Maryland?
In Maryland, hummingbirds usually arrive in early April. Specifically, you can expect to see them around mid-March to late April. This is the time of year when these tiny birds migrate from their winter homes in Central and South America back up north for the breeding season. The exact dates may vary slightly each year, but generally speaking, this is the window you should look out for.
When hummingbirds arrive in Maryland, they quickly begin searching for food sources and nesting sites. If you plan to attract them to your backyard garden, it’s important to have the right kind of plants that will attract them like nectar-rich flowers, trees with small berries, and plenty of water sources.
When you get a chance to glimpse these charming birds up close, it’s an experience like no other. The hummingbirds will show off their acrobatic skills as they zigzag through the air, flitting from flower to flower and rarely stopping for more than a few seconds at a time. It’s truly an unforgettable sight to witness.
Are Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds Regaining Their Former Populations?
The Ruby-throated hummingbirds arrive in Maryland as early as late March and usually stay until mid-October. It is actually increasing in population, unlike many other hummingbird species that have been struggling. Their population increased by 25% on average every ten years from 1966 to 2019. There are thought to be 20 million breeding Ruby-throats worldwide. Male ruby-throated hummingbirds are slightly larger than female ruby-throated hummingbirds and have a brilliant red throats.
The beautiful Ruby-throated hummingbird lives in Maryland, but its population is fragile. You can help protect this species by avoiding the use of pesticides, keeping cats inside, and cultivating native plants that support pollinators. Together we can ensure their survival. If you see one of these birds, it’s usually in the late summer or early fall when it’s on its journey south to its far-off breeding grounds in Mexico and Central America.
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Are There Any Other Types Of Hummingbirds That Visit Maryland?
Yes! The Rufous hummingbirds, black-chinned hummingbirds, and Anna’s hummingbird are among the other species of hummingbirds that migrate through Maryland. While they might pause for a few days, these birds do not stay to breed in our region. Other hummingbirds may make migration stops in Maryland, but they don’t remain here. Common visitors include the Calliope hummingbird, the Broad-tailed hummingbird, and Allen’s hummingbird.
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When Should You Place Nectar Feeders Outside?
In Maryland, set up your hummingbird feeders at the start of April, or approximately 1-2 weeks before you anticipate the earliest hummingbird arrival. This will guarantee that migratory birds can discover your feeders, which will be filled and prepared for them to use. Hummingbirds have an incredible memory and might frequent the same feeding locations year after year. Hummingbirds may be driven to leave your yard if they arrive and discover it is vacant due to their high energy requirements. Get your feeders ready early if you want to be sure to draw them in.
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When Should You Take Down Hummingbird Feeder?
The second week of October, or two weeks after you last see a hummingbird using your feeders, is when you should take your hummingbird feeders down in Maryland. Mid-to-late September marks the beginning of the hummingbirds’ migration out of Maryland; they normally leave around the start of October.
The hummingbird migration won’t be stopped if you leave your feeders up, so don’t be concerned. Because of its internal clock, which is set off by the lengthening or shortening of the day, each bird is able to determine when it is time to go. Hummingbirds move separately to enable them to maximize their utilization of the food and resources at hand. Your feeders will assist them, and they will depart when they are prepared.
How To Attract Hummingbirds To Visit Your Backyard
Here are some suggestions to help you get more hummingbirds in your yard:
1. Spread out more hummingbird feeders and hummingbird nests about your yard, fill them with homemade nectar and do this to establish new territories.
2. You prevent infections from spreading, be sure to clean and replace the hummingbird nectar frequently.
3. Include a water feature, such as a stream or a birdbath fountain. Make sure the water is clear and not pounded.
4. Grow native plants like salvias, fuchsias, trumpet creeper, lupin, columbine, bee balms, and foxgloves that will provide food.
5. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides since birds may be poisoned by them.
6. Give hummingbirds a place to rest on tiny perches on slender branches that are devoid of foliage.
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Conclusion:
Hummingbirds are one of the most beloved and amazing birds to observe in your backyard. By providing food, water, and safe havens for them, you can attract them to your yard. Planting native plants that flower in Maryland is an excellent way to ensure their presence. Hummingbirds have an incredible memory and may frequent the same locations year after year if conditions remain favorable.
