When Do Hummingbirds Arrive & Leave New Mexico

When Do Hummingbirds Arrive In & Leave New Mexico?

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Hummingbirds are one of the most beloved bird species in North America. They are known for their incredible flying abilities and beautiful colors. In New Mexico, we are blessed to have several different species of hummingbirds that call our state home.

You may wonder when these creatures return to our neck of the woods after wintering elsewhere. Well, it turns out that there is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on various factors, including weather conditions and the availability of food sources. However, some general patterns can give us a good idea of when hummingbirds will likely be back in town.

So if you’re eager to add some feathered friends back into your life, read on for everything you need to know about the arrival and departure of hummingbirds in New Mexico!

What Time of Year Do Hummingbirds Typically Arrive in New Mexico 

Spring is a time of new beginnings, including the return of migratory birds to New Mexico. Hummingbirds are one of the first birds to arrive, typically showing up in early March. Ensure your hummingbird feeders are ready for the first male arrivals to set up territories for the breeding season before the females show up.

However, there can be some variation depending on the weather. If it’s been a mild winter, the birds may arrive earlier. Conversely, if it’s been cold and snowy, they may not appear until late March or even early April.

The various species will also arrive at differing times in the state. Black-chinned hummingbirds and Broad-tailed hummingbirds are early spring migrants to New Mexico, arriving in early March and departing in late November. Rufous hummingbirds are fall migrants, arriving in mid-June and departing in mid-November.

While the exact date of their arrival can be hard to predict, one thing is for sure: the hummingbirds will bring a much-needed touch of color and life to the landscape after a long winter.

When Do Hummingbirds Arrive & Leave New Mexico

How Long Do Hummingbirds Stay in New Mexico

How long hummingbirds stay in New Mexico depends on the species. Some species, like Anna’s hummingbird, are year-round residents. Others, like the Rufous hummingbird, only stay for part of the year. The best time to see hummingbirds in New Mexico is April to September.

During this time, you’ll have a chance to see a variety of species, including Costa’s hummingbird, the Black-chinned hummingbird, and Anna’s hummingbird. So, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of these beautiful birds, keep an eye out from April to September.

When Do Hummingbirds Leave New Mexico 

These tiny birds typically begin their journey south in late September or early October, and they’ll continue migrating until they reach their wintering grounds in Mexico or Central America.

The exact time hummingbirds will leave New Mexico depends on several factors, including the weather. Most hummingbirds typically begin their migration in late August or early September.

However, there are always some stragglers that can be seen as late as November. Keep your feeders up for as long as you have hummingbird visitors.

Where Do Hummingbirds Go When They Leave New Mexico?

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, you may notice that your hummingbird feeders are suddenly empty. For many people, this is a cause for concern. However, there’s no need to worry—the hummingbirds are just migrating to their winter homes.

These tiny birds embark on an epic journey every year, flying hundreds or even thousands of miles to escape the cold weather. While some hummingbirds stay in North America year-round, most migrate to Central America or even further south.

The journey is fraught with danger, as these tiny birds must brave harsh weather conditions and avoid predators. However, the rewards are worth it, as the hummingbirds can feast on an abundance of nectar-rich flowers in their winter homes.

What Kind of Hummingbirds Can Be Found in New Mexico 

When it comes to hummingbirds, North America is home to a wealth of diversity. There are over 20 different species that call this continent home. And of those, 17 have been documented in the state of New Mexico alone. 

That puts the Land of Enchantment firmly on the map as one of the nation’s hot spots for hummingbird viewing. Half of the 17 species documented here are considered common, while the other half are considered rare. 

The four most common species are the Black-chinned, Broad-tailed, Calliope, and Rufous. So if you’re ever in New Mexico and want to glimpse these incredible creatures, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for any of these four species.

How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard in New Mexico

New Mexico is home to a wide variety of hummingbird species, and these tiny birds can add a touch of beauty to any yard.

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your property, there are a few simple steps you can take.

First, provide a source of fresh water. Hummingbirds are attracted to moving water, so consider installing a small fountain or waterfall. You can also simply hang a birdbath in your yard and change the water regularly.

Second, plant native flowers that bloom in shades of red, pink, or orange. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to tubular flowers that they can hover over while sipping nectar. Good choices for New Mexico gardens include bee balm, cardinal flower, and trumpet honeysuckle.

In New Mexico, the most common hummingbird species is Costa’s hummingbird. These small birds are attracted to red flowers, so try planting some annuals such as impatiens or cosmos.

You can also put out a hummingbird feeder filled with nectar. Be sure to clean the bird feeder regularly, and avoid using artificial sweeteners, which can be harmful to the birds.

Plant some shrubs or small trees in your yard to provide shelter for the hummingbirds. The birds will use these as perches and nesting sites. You can create a backyard oasis that attracts these fascinating creatures by following these simple tips.

Where To See Hummingbirds In New Mexico?

If you’re looking to spot a hummingbird in New Mexico, you’re in luck. The state is home to some incredible ecosystems; Albuquerque is ranked number four in bird diversity in the United States.

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of one of these beautiful creatures, your best bet is to head to a park or nature reserve. The Rio Grande Valley State Park is an excellent spot for birdwatching, and you’re sure to see at least a few hummingbirds flitting around the flowers.

Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge is another good option, as is Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. With a little patience and a keen eye, you’re sure to spot a hummingbird or two in any of these locations.

Final Thoughts

As the weather starts to warm up, keep an eye out for hummingbirds! These little birds are some of the first migrants to arrive in New Mexico each spring, typically showing up in late March or early April. They’ll stay around until fall when they head south for the winter. So if you’re hoping to spot a hummingbird this year, now is the time to start looking!

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