Bird watchers grab your gear, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds incoming

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Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are making their way across the state in March.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds follow their migration pattern, which puts them abundantly in the state beginning in March. The hummingbirds usually remain in the area until November, when they return to Central and South America. While other hummingbird species may be in the area, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common to see.

Most choose to welcome these swift creatures by preparing hummingbird feeders and placing them around their yards and porches, bringing nature closer to home.  Others plant tubular flowers, giving the small birds a natural food source. They commonly place their nests on branches of deciduous or coniferous trees, but have grown so used to humans, they will also nest on chain, wire and extension cords.

This particular species is eastern North America’s only breeding hummingbird. They claim the largest breeding area of any North American hummingbird species.

Courtesy of Mississippi State University Extension Service