Here’s where thousands of Hummingbirds are migrating to – and where you can catch it. 

Fall migration is now underway across the U.S., and some of the nation’s favorite birds are beginning one of the bird world’s most remarkable journeys.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are heading south toward their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America, with many birds passing through the southern United States during September and October.

Despite weighing roughly as much as a penny, these tiny birds can travel hundreds – and sometimes more than 1,000 – miles during migration.

Image credit: Veronika Andrews

A 500-mile flight across the Gulf

One of the most extraordinary parts of the journey comes when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds reach the Gulf Coast.

Some birds take a coastal route around the Gulf of Mexico, while others make the incredible decision to fly directly across the water. Those that take the direct route can travel around 500 miles without stopping, potentially spending 18-22 hours in the air – making food consumption before departing particularly important.

Hummingbirds feed heavily on nectar and also consume small insects and spiders, helping them build the energy reserves needed for migration.

Image credit: Veronika Andrews

Where are the hummingbirds going?

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds breed across much of the eastern U.S. and southern Canada before heading south toward Mexico and Central America for the winter.

The Gulf Coast is an especially important stop along the way. At the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory in Texas, September is a peak period for seeing migrating hummingbirds, with birds stopping to refuel before continuing south.

In fact, the observatory is holding its annual Xtreme Hummingbird Xtravaganza on September 12 and 19, coinciding with the peak of the fall migration.

You may be seeing them in your backyard

If you live across the eastern or southern U.S., September can be an excellent time to watch for hummingbirds.

Keep an eye on flowering plants, woodland edges, and hummingbird feeders. Birds passing through may only remain in an area briefly before continuing their journey south.

So, if a hummingbird suddenly appears in your yard this month, it may be more than just a backyard visitor. It could be a tiny traveler stopping to refuel before the next leg of an extraordinary journey.