Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds start migration to Southeast

Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are beginning their annual migration north. This journey marks the arrival of spring, with warmer temperatures and blooming flowers. In recent weeks, these colorful birds have been spotted along the Gulf Coast and are moving further north into the Southeast. They are expected to reach the Midwest and Northeast by early May. Once they settle in, the hummingbirds will stay in the Eastern U.S. until November when they will head back south. The migration is impressive, as these small birds can fly over 1,200 miles without resting. The flight over the Gulf can take 18 to 22 hours. To attract these hummingbirds to your garden, it is a good idea to prepare your feeders. The Mississippi State University Extension Service offers tips for creating an inviting environment for them.