Hummingbirds are normally considered a spring sighting, but eagle-eyed Georgians could see one of these tiny speedsters in their backyard this fall as they migrate to warmer areas.
When is fall hummingbird migration season?
Pictures and videos posted on social media already show hummingbirds on the move over the last couple of weeks. AccuWeather and Mississippi State University Extension Service's migration forecast predict ruby-throated hummingbirds will be seen in the Southern states, including Georgia, between Sept. 27 and Oct. 4.
They are expected to reach the area around the Gulf of Mexico by Oct. 4-11.
Where do hummingbirds migrate in fall?
During fall migration, hummingbirds fly south to destinations in Mexico and Central America, Hummingbird Central says.
What hummingbirds are native to Georgia?
Georgia is home to 11 hummingbird species, according to Georgia Wildlife.
The only one known to nest in Georgia is the ruby-throated hummingbird. Here are the other native species:
- Black-chinned hummingbird
- Rufous hummingbird
- Calliope hummingbird
- Magnificent hummingbird
Birdhouses and feeders are at Tractor Supply Co.
- Allen's hummingbird
- Anna's hummingbird
- Broad-billed hummingbird
- Green violet-ear hummingbird
- Green-breasted mango hummingbird
- Broad-tailed hummingbird
How fast do hummingbirds fly during fall migration?
A hummingbird's heart beats up to 1,260 times a minute and its wings flap 15 to 80 times per second as they migrate south, Hummingbird Central says. Hummingbirds prepare for this by gaining 25% to 40% of their body weight in the leadup to migration season, according to Hummingbird Central.
When will hummingbirds be back?
Based on the last few years' patterns, hummingbirds are expected to cross back into the southern portions of Georgia around mid-to-late March depending on weather developments.
Jenna Prestininzi of Detroit Free Press contributed to this article.
Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for USA Today. Find him on Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: When do hummingbirds fly south? What to know about fall visitors in GA
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