Hummingbirds are getting ready to begin departing from the northern regions of the United States for their winter getaways down south.
The tiny, colorful birds will spend winter in Mexico and Central America, escaping the cold and snow in the north, before returning in spring 2027.
Here's what to know about fall hummingbird migration.
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 said. Hummingbirds prepare for this by gaining 25% to 40% of their body weight in the lead up to migration season.
When is fall hummingbird migration season?
Hummingbirds typically migrate south in the fall from August to October in North America, EarthSky said.
Hummingbird Central said male hummingbirds begin migrating south in mid-July, followed by females and later young hummingbirds. Fall hummingbird migration is prompted by changing daylight, cooler weather and fewer flowers, nectar and insects during the season, along with the birds' internal biological calendar, Hummingbird Central explained.
Where do hummingbirds migrate in fall?
During fall migration, hummingbirds fly south to destinations in Mexico and Central America, Hummingbird Central said.
When will hummingbirds be back?
Hummingbirds will arrive back north in areas like Michigan in late spring 2027, based on typical migration patterns. BirdWatching recommends putting out your hummingbird feeders by early April.
This story originally appeared in Detroit Free Press.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: When do hummingbirds fly south? What to know about summer visitors
