Cat Spring, Texas

They’re Back! It’s that time of year again when bird-lovers post photos of hummingbirds on Facebook. I know I was a little worried that they might skip us because of the hot, dry conditions, so I was very happy to see them flitting through my yard. I quickly filled up my feeders so they would call their friends. We in Cat Spring are fortunate to be located in the migratory path of these lovely birds. As cooler weather arrives in the north, the hummers begin their journey back south for the winter.

Amazing Migration

Hummingbirds that pass through Southeast Texas during their fall migration typically have several potential destinations in Central America and Mexico. Southeast Texas serves as an important stopover point where these tiny travelers rest and refuel before continuing their journey.

Some species of hummingbirds, particularly the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), are known to undertake an incredible non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico during their fall migration.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird breeds in eastern North America and parts of Canada, and in preparation for their fall migration, they accumulate fat reserves to provide the energy needed for this remarkable journey. When the time comes to migrate, they embark on a non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico, which can span approximately 500 miles (800 kilometers) or more, depending on their departure point and destination.

This Gulf crossing is an astonishing feat for such tiny birds, as it involves flying for approximately 18 to 20 hours without rest or food. To prepare for the journey, these hummingbirds may double their body weight by building up fat reserves, which they use as a source of energy during the flight.

Upon reaching the other side of the Gulf, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds find suitable habitats in Mexico, Central America, or even parts of the Caribbean to spend the winter. When spring arrives, they make the return journey north.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s Gulf crossing is one of the most remarkable feats in the bird world and is a testament to their incredible endurance and navigational abilities.

Feeding the Tiny Travelers

There is no need to buy expensive pre-made nectar for your feeders. Simply mix a 4 to 1 ratio of clean water and white sugar until the sugar fully dissolves and then fill up your hummingbird feeders. You don’t need to add red dye. Make sure to keep them free from mold by washing each time you refill, but be sure to rinse away any soap residue before filling.

Attracting More Hummers with Flowers

Want to see more hummers in your yard? Consider adding native plants to your garden or balcony that attract hummingbirds.

Here are some of the hummingbird-friendly plants that thrive in the heat and are well-suited for Texas gardens:

1. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): Trumpet Vine is known for its heat tolerance and can thrive in Texas, attracting hummingbirds with its brilliant red or orange blooms.
2. Salvia (Salvia spp.): Many Salvia species are drought-tolerant and can handle the heat of Texas summers. Varieties like Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii) and Mealy Cup Sage (Salvia farinacea) are particularly well-suited.
3. Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens): This native vine is adapted to the Texas climate and can withstand heat and periods of drought while providing nectar for hummingbirds.
4. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria): Red Hot Poker plants are heat-tolerant and can thrive in the Texas sun. Their fiery blooms are a favorite of hummingbirds.
5. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.): Some Columbine species, like Eastern Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), are adapted to Texas conditions and provide a shade-tolerant option for attracting hummingbirds.
6. Agastache (Agastache spp.): Hummingbird mints are heat-loving perennials that do well in Texas gardens, and they come in various colors to attract these birds.
7. Cuphea (Cuphea spp.): Cuphea species are heat-tolerant and perfect for the Texas climate. Their tubular flowers are a hummingbird magnet.

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Enjoy them while they last!