Flight of the Tiny Giants: Exploring Hummingbird Migration
Hummingbirds are known for their astonishing long-distance migration, often traveling thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in North America and wintering habitats in Central and South America.
The most well-known hummingbird species that migrate are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), which migrates alone across the Gulf of Mexico
Hummingbirds rely on a mix of environmental cues such as the position of the sun, Earth's magnetic field, and even their ability to recognize landmarks to navigate their migratory route.
One of the most impressive feats of hummingbird migration is crossing the Gulf of Mexico. Some species fly up to 500 miles without stopping to rest or eat.
Hummingbirds typically migrate in the fall, departing North America around late summer or early autumn.
They return to breed in the spring, typically between late March and May, with the exact timing varying based on weather patterns and food availability.
Before migration, hummingbirds enter a state called "hyperphagia," where they eat intensely to build up fat stores, which provide the energy needed for their long flight.