Hummingbirds In New Brunswick: Arrival Times

New Brunswick, a province in eastern Canada, welcomes the arrival of hummingbirds each year as they migrate to the region for breeding and feeding. These tiny birds, known for their iridescent feathers and swift movements, are a delightful sight for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The most common species in the area is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, recognised by its brilliant red throat patch. So, when exactly do these fascinating creatures grace New Brunswick with their presence?

Hummingbirds typically arrive in New Brunswick between late May and early June, depending on weather conditions and other factors. Their journey to the province is part of a long-distance migration, with some travelling over 4000 miles each year. During the spring, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds make their way northward from their wintering grounds in Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean, following the blooming flowers and feeding on nectar and insects along the way. As they migrate, they rely on nectar from flowers and insects for energy, and may also stop at bird feeders for refuelling.

In New Brunswick, hummingbirds are eagerly awaited by residents who set up feeders and plant attractive flowers in their backyards. The birds typically stay throughout the summer months, raising their young and providing a captivating display of colour and agility. However, their stay is fleeting, as they begin their southward migration in late summer or early fall, returning to their wintering grounds.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most common species in New Brunswick

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most common species of hummingbird in New Brunswick. They are the only hummingbird species native to the Maritimes and are the most frequently spotted hummingbirds in the province during the summer months. These tiny birds, with their distinctive iridescent red or ruby throats, are a fan favourite among birdwatchers in New Brunswick.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds typically arrive in New Brunswick in mid-May or late May, and sometimes as early as the beginning of the month. They migrate from their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico, travelling as far as 7,000 kilometres to reach the province. They rely on nectar from flowers and insects for energy during their journey and may also stop at bird feeders for nourishment.

The male Ruby-throated Hummingbird is bright green on the back and crown, with a greyish-white underside and a forked tail. The female, on the other hand, has a green-grey back and is white underneath, with brownish crowns and sides. Both sexes have white bellies, but only the males sport the iridescent ruby-coloured throat that gives the species its name.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are usually found along the edges of woodlands, orchards, and gardens. They are also common in towns, especially near nectar feeders. These birds are aggressive in defending their food sources and will chase away intruders. They build their nests using materials like thistle, dandelion down, and spider silk, carefully camouflaging them to look like natural knobs on branches.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the only breeding hummingbird species in eastern North America. They spend the breeding season in New Brunswick and other parts of eastern Canada and the eastern United States before migrating south for the winter. They typically remain in the province from May to early October and then head to Central America and Mexico for the colder months.

They migrate to New Brunswick in late May or early June

Hummingbirds typically migrate to New Brunswick in late May or early June. This timing can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors, with the birds arriving later in the northern parts of the province and earlier in the southern regions.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common species of hummingbird in New Brunswick during the summer. These birds are easily recognisable by the iridescent red throat of the male and the brownish crown and sides of the female. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the only hummingbird species known to breed in Eastern Canada. They typically arrive in New Brunswick in May, with male birds usually arriving one or two weeks before the females.

Birdwatchers in New Brunswick often put out feeders to attract these tiny birds to their yards. It is recommended to use a feeder with a glass container, as it is easier to clean than plastic. The feeder should be filled with a solution of four parts water to one part white granulated sugar. It is important to avoid using red food dye or honey, as these can be harmful to the birds.

Hummingbirds have an incredibly high metabolism and need to feed every day. They are the only species of bird that can fly backward, and they can travel over 4,000 miles in a year. They are also capable of storing enough fuel, mostly from nectar, to fly a couple of thousand miles under the right weather conditions.

In addition to feeders, planting native flowers can also help attract hummingbirds to your yard. Recommended flowers include salvias, fuchsias, trumpet creeper, lupin, columbine, bee balms, and foxgloves.

Hummingbirds migrate solo and travel up to 4,000 miles a year

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures, and their migration patterns are even more intriguing. These tiny birds, known for their iridescent feathers and swift movements, embark on remarkable journeys each year, covering vast distances. One interesting aspect of their migration is that hummingbirds migrate solo, and they can travel long distances, sometimes up to 4,000 miles a year.

Hummingbirds are migratory birds that travel long distances annually to breed and feed. They are found in North, Central, and South America, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird being the most common species in North America. These birds spend their winters in warmer regions such as Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean, where they feed on nectar and insects.

Come spring, they begin their northward journey to their breeding grounds in the eastern United States and Canada. This migration is fuelled by their internal instincts, changes in daylight duration, and the abundance of flowers, nectar, and insects. They navigate using internal calendars and maps and rely on stored fat and whatever food they can find en route.

During their migration, hummingbirds fly alone and often follow the same path they have flown before. They fly during the day, staying close to treetops or water, and make stops along the way to rest and refuel. Their average speed in direct flight ranges from 20 to 30 mph, but they can reach up to three times that speed during courtship dives.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, for example, migrates from Central America and Mexico up to Canada. This journey can begin as early as February in Mexico and conclude in mid-May in Canada and Alaska. The fall migration follows a similar timeline, with hummingbirds setting out as early as late July and the last birds crossing the southern U.S. border by late October.

Hummingbirds are known for their endurance and tenacity during migration. For instance, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird sometimes flies non-stop over the Gulf of Mexico, covering up to 500 miles in a solitary flight that can last 18 to 22 hours. This challenging journey showcases their determination and navigational skills.

In New Brunswick, a province in eastern Canada, hummingbirds typically arrive in late May or early June. Their arrival time can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors, with earlier arrivals in southern parts and later ones in the northern regions. Birdwatchers in New Brunswick eagerly anticipate the return of these colourful birds each spring, setting up feeders and creating welcoming habitats in their backyards.

They migrate to Central America and Mexico for winter

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures, and their migration patterns are even more intriguing. These tiny birds travel long distances, often over 4000 miles, to reach their breeding grounds in the spring and summer months. While some hummingbirds, like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, migrate to eastern Canada and the United States, others, like the Rufous Hummingbird, choose the Pacific Coast or northwest Alaska and Canada. But come winter, many hummingbirds migrate further south to Central America and Mexico, escaping the cold and scarcity of food.

Central America and Mexico offer a welcoming environment for hummingbirds during the colder months. The climate in these regions remains mild, providing an ideal habitat for hummingbirds to survive. The abundance of nectar-rich flowers and insects ensures they have plenty of food to sustain themselves. This northward and southward migration is essential for their survival and breeding success.

The journey to Central America and Mexico is not without its challenges. Hummingbirds must cross the Gulf of Mexico, a formidable barrier that can span up to 500 miles for some species like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. This crossing is particularly dangerous due to strong headwinds, heavy rain, and a lack of food sources along the way. Despite these obstacles, hummingbirds are capable of making this trip in less than a day, thanks to their impressive endurance and ability to use tailwinds efficiently.

Hummingbirds are solitary migrants, flying alone and low to the ground, just above treetops or water sources. This strategy allows them to easily spot food sources and make necessary stops to refuel. During migration, a hummingbird's heart can beat up to an astonishing 1,260 times per minute, and its wings flap 15 to 80 times per second. To prepare for this demanding journey, hummingbirds typically gain 25-40% of their body weight before setting off.

The timing of their migration is influenced by various factors, including changes in daylight duration and the availability of flowers, nectar, and insects. Some species, like the Rufous Hummingbird, have been observed to alter their migration routes based on the presence of blooming flowers, showcasing their adaptability to changing conditions.

In summary, hummingbirds migrate to Central America and Mexico during the winter to take advantage of the milder climate and abundant food sources. Their journey is a testament to their resilience and navigational skills, as they brave the challenges of long-distance travel to ensure their survival and successful breeding.

You can attract them by setting up a feeder with a sugar-water solution

Hummingbirds typically arrive in New Brunswick in late May or early June, with some sightings as early as the first week of May. These beautiful birds are a delight to birdwatchers, with their iridescent feathers, swift movements, and distinctive whirring sound.

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, setting up a feeder with a sugar-water solution is a great way to do so. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose the Right Feeder

Select a feeder with a glass container, which is easier to clean than plastic. A glass feeder will also allow you to easily monitor the sugar-water levels.

Prepare the Sugar-Water Solution

To make the sugar-water solution, boil four parts water and add one part white sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important to avoid using red food dye or honey, as these can be harmful to the birds. Let the solution cool to room temperature before filling your feeder.

Hang the Feeder

Hang your feeder in a sunny location that is sheltered from the wind. Hummingbirds are attracted to bright, open spaces, so choose a spot where they are likely to spot your feeder.

Maintain the Feeder

It is important to keep your feeder clean and the sugar-water fresh. Once a week, discard any remaining sugar water, clean the feeder with soap and water, and then rinse it with a 10% bleach solution. Make sure to rinse the feeder thoroughly with water before adding fresh sugar water.

Provide Perches and Native Plants

In addition to feeders, hummingbirds also need places to rest. Provide small perches made of thin branches, bare of leaves, for them to rest between feedings. You can also attract hummingbirds by planting native flowers that provide nectar, such as salvias, fuschias, trumpet creepers, lupins, columbines, bee balms, and foxgloves. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, as these can be harmful to the birds.

By following these tips, you can create a welcoming environment for hummingbirds in your yard and enjoy watching these fascinating creatures up close.

Frequently asked questions