Discover When Hummingbirds Are Set to Flee New Mexico

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Even if you don’t consider yourself a birdwatcher, you probably know what a hummingbird is. These iridescent birds are easily recognizable and well-loved by just about everyone. But if you live in New Mexico, they don’t hang around all year, making them even more special. Keep reading to find out when hummingbirds are set to flee New Mexico.

Hummingbird migration is surprisingly complicated. We didn’t even know that hummingbirds did migrate until a couple of hundred years ago, and we’ve only been able to study migration in-depth starting a decade ago.

However, we have learned a lot about these feathery friends in that short amount of time. Let’s look at when these hummingbirds leave New Mexico and where they go.

Most hummingbirds in New Mexico start migrating during the late summer and early fall months. We expect they know when to leave based on the length of the days, which start shortening considerably during the later summer months. However, food availability and temperature may also play a role.

The vast majority of hummingbirds migrate, including most of the ones in New Mexico. Certain common species, such as the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, and Broad-tailed Hummingbird, are known to leave New Mexico around late August to early September.

These departures can vary, though. Individuals may stick around for longer, while others may leave earlier.

We’re still learning a lot about hummingbird migration, which has remained a mystery to us for a long time. We don’t absolutely understand everything revolving around migration, including what triggers it.

However, we believe that hummingbirds mostly rely on the day length to signal when migration is near. This is because migration dates tend to remain the same no matter the weather. That said, it is also possible that hummingbirds are using signals like the stars to determine when to migrate.

Temperature changes may also signal that it’s time for hummingbirds to go. Often, the nights start cooling in late August and early September. Differences in temperature from year to year may explain why hummingbird migration sometimes shifts dates.

Food availability may also be a factor. Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar, and as flowers start to wither and nectar becomes scarcer, these birds are motivated to seek out alternative food sources. Insects also become less abundant, further contributing to their decision to migrate.

However, in New Mexico, hummingbirds often migrate before the flowers have stopped blooming. Therefore, food cannot be the primary factor leading hummingbirds to migrate.

Most migrating hummingbirds in New Mexico overwinter in southern Mexico and Central America. These tropical regions provide the nectar these tiny birds need to survive the cooler months. The exact migration destination does vary, though.

Many species of hummingbirds that migrate from New Mexico find their way to the lush habitats along the Gulf of Mexico. This region offers a haven of nectar-producing flowers and a consistent supply of insects—a critical food source for these birds.

As you might imagine, tropical areas are very popular. However, some birds prefer the higher elevations of more mountainous regions, which have cooler year-round temperatures.

To get to these destinations, hummingbirds must undertake a fairly long journey. Harsh weather conditions, like strong winds and storms, can decimate whole flocks of birds. Furthermore, predators in many regions prey on hummingbirds during the migration period.

As you might imagine, the energy demands are extremely high, too. Hummingbirds will often increase their caloric intake in the weeks leading up to migration, probably to put on a little extra weight in preparation. During migration, they may also stop to refuel where food is available.

We’re still learning about “stopover” habitats, where hummingbirds stop to rest and refuel. These habitats offer nectar-rich flowers and plenty of insects, allowing the hummingbirds to fill up before they complete the next leg of their journey.

©Ramona Edwards/Shutterstock.com

New Mexico is an important stopover point for several hummingbird species and is home to several hummingbirds that live there over the breeding season. Exactly what hummingbirds are native to can be a bit confusing.

While some hummingbirds live in New Mexico for half or more of the year, others may only fly through it briefly. Technically, these migratory species would be considered native.

©Devonyu /Shutterstock.com

While the vast majority of hummingbirds do migrate, some of them do not. These notable exceptions have adapted to survive the cooler temperatures of New Mexico’s winter.

Anna’s hummingbird is one of the most prominent year-round residents of New Mexico. They establish themselves around feeders and in gardens throughout the state, remaining in their home range all year.

Unlike migrating species, Anna’s Hummingbirds have evolved physiological and behavioral adaptations to endure colder weather. They can enter a state of torpor—a temporary hibernation-like condition—that allows them to conserve energy during chilly nights.

Costa’s hummingbirds are a bit rarer in New Mexico, but this species also doesn’t migrate. It’s particularly suited to the arid and desert landscapes of the region, where they feed on desert blooms.

If you notice these non-migratory species at your feeder, you may want to consider leaving it up year-round. These hummingbirds will typically stay where they know food is available, which may include your feeder.

There are many ways you can support hummingbirds in New Mexico. One way is to plant native flowers that provide food. Species such as penstemon, columbine, and bee balm are popular choices.

Try to plant a mix of different plants to ensure that something is blooming most of the time. Stick with native plants, too, as invasive species may out-compete native flowers and do more harm than good.

You can also put out hummingbird feeders, which can be filled up with a simple sugar water mixture. These feeders can provide essential nourishment, especially for hummingbirds moving through the state.

Hang the feeders somewhere visible and safe. Don’t put them near windows, as hummingbirds are particularly prone to running into glass. Regularly clean out the feeder to prevent harmful bacteria from growing, which can make your hummingbirds sick.

Remember, on top of the resident hummingbirds, migrating birds may move through the state briefly to make it to Mexico. Therefore, you may want to consider leaving your feeders up a bit longer than you might otherwise, as this can provide food for passing birds.

We’re still learning a lot about what hummingbirds need to migrate. Given the challenges hummingbirds face during their long journeys, preserving stopover habitats becomes crucial. It’s important that hummingbirds have somewhere to stop and refuel, even if they don’t live there for much of the year.

Support local efforts to safeguard these essential locations. Scientists are still learning about where hummingbirds stop on their journey, but protecting the places we do know about is vital.

Consider supporting the hummingbirds right in your backyard, as well. For instance, you should provide a variety of flowering plants for these birds to eat. Minimize pesticide use, as these can harm hummingbirds (and other pollinators).

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