I’ve been an avid birdwatcher for years, and I’ve had the pleasure of observing hummingbirds in my backyard in Maryland. So, when it comes to how long these tiny creatures stay in the state, I can share my personal experiences and knowledge.
In Maryland, hummingbirds typically arrive in the spring, around late April or early May. I always look forward to this time of year because it means I can hang up my hummingbird feeders and watch these remarkable birds up close.
During the summer months, these little birds are quite active. They flit around from flower to flower, feeding on nectar and insects. I’ve noticed that they particularly enjoy visiting my hummingbird feeders, which I keep filled with a homemade nectar solution.
As the summer progresses, I’ve noticed a slight decrease in hummingbird activity. By mid-September, I usually start to see fewer hummingbirds visiting my feeders. This is a sign that they are beginning to prepare for their migration.
Migration is a remarkable feat for such small birds. They embark on a long journey to their wintering grounds in Central America or Mexico, where food is more abundant during the colder months.
Based on my observations and information from fellow birdwatchers, the hummingbirds in Maryland tend to depart around the beginning of October. However, it’s essential to note that migration patterns can vary slightly from year to year and can be influenced by factors such as weather conditions and food availability.
To determine the best time to take down your hummingbird feeders, it’s generally recommended to wait for about two weeks after you last see a hummingbird using the feeders. This allows any stragglers or late migrators to have a chance to refuel before continuing their journey.
Taking down the feeders after this period helps ensure that any remaining hummingbirds are encouraged to continue their migration, as lingering in Maryland may not be ideal for their survival.
I hope this information helps you plan for the departure of the hummingbirds in Maryland. It’s always a bittersweet time when they leave, but I look forward to their return next spring.