Michigan is home to one species of hummingbird: the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris).
These delightful, iridescent birds grace the state during the warmer months, making Michigan a temporary haven for these tiny wonders.
Known for their vibrant green plumage and, in the case of males, a striking ruby-red throat, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds migrate to Michigan to breed and feed on nectar-rich flowers.
While Michigan may not host the diversity of hummingbird species found in more tropical regions, the presence of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds adds a touch of enchantment to the state’s natural landscape.
Creating a hummingbird-friendly environment with native plants and well-maintained feeders enhances the chances of witnessing these aerial acrobats and contributes to their well-being during their seasonal stay in Michigan.
Is Michigan A Good Place for Hummingbirds?
Yes, Michigan can be a suitable place for hummingbirds, especially during the warmer months of spring and summer.
While Michigan is not traditionally known for hosting large populations of hummingbirds compared to more southern states, it is still part of the migratory route for several hummingbird species.
The most common hummingbird species in Michigan is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. These tiny birds migrate to the state during the warmer seasons, attracted by the abundance of nectar-rich flowers.
Michigan residents can create a hospitable environment for hummingbirds by planting native flowering plants, providing clean and well-maintained feeders, and ensuring suitable shelter and nesting sites.
Although the hummingbird activity in Michigan may be more seasonal than in warmer climates, dedicated efforts to create a hummingbird-friendly habitat can attract these fascinating birds and contribute to their well-being during their time in the state.
8 Hummingbirds in Michigan
In Michigan, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird stands as the sole hummingbird species, gracing the state with its vibrant presence during warmer seasons.
Recognized for its dazzling plumage, particularly the male’s ruby-red throat, these tiny visitors add a touch of natural marvel to Michigan’s landscapes.
1. Berylline Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Amazilia beryllia
- Population: Population size is challenging to estimate due to their migratory nature
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3.5-4 inches
- Weight: Approximately 3-4 grams
- Food: Nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 4-4.5 inches
- Status: Not evaluated (insufficient data for assessment)
The Berylline Hummingbird, with its vibrant green plumage and shimmering throat, is a migratory species occasionally spotted in Michigan during the warmer months.
These agile birds feed on nectar from various flowers, using their long, specialized bills and extendable, tube-like tongues.
While nectar forms the primary part of their diet, they also consume small insects and spiders for essential proteins. Berylline Hummingbirds are known for their territorial behavior, fiercely defending feeding territories and perches.
Their migration patterns often lead them to travel long distances, emphasizing the importance of preserving diverse and suitable habitats along their migratory routes.
2. Rufous Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Selasphorus rufus
- Population: Approximately 7 million individuals (North American population estimate)
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3-4 inches
- Weight: Around 2-5 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 4-4.5 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Rufous Hummingbird, a charismatic and fiercely territorial species, is a common visitor to Michigan during its migratory journey.
Recognizable by its vibrant orange-red plumage and rapid wing beats, these hummingbirds play a crucial pollinator role.
With a preference for nectar-rich flowers, they exhibit remarkable agility in flight, allowing them to hover and access nectar from various blossom types.
Rufous Hummingbirds are known for their long migratory journeys, covering thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in North America and wintering grounds in Mexico.
Their resilience and adaptability in exploiting diverse nectar sources underscore their significance in maintaining ecological balance within their habitats.
3. White-eared Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Hylocharis leucotis
- Population: Population size varies; listed as a species of Least Concern
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3.5-4 inches
- Weight: Approximately 3-4 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 4-4.5 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The White-eared Hummingbird, adorned with a distinctive white stripe behind its eye, is a captivating species occasionally observed in Michigan during migration.
These agile birds feed on nectar from various flowers, using their specialized bills and extendable tongues.
Like many hummingbirds, they supplement their diet with insects and spiders for essential proteins. White-eared Hummingbirds are known for their territorial behavior, defending feeding territories and perches with remarkable energy.
Their migration patterns highlight the importance of maintaining suitable habitats along migratory routes, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to support these incredible avian travelers.
4. Calliope Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Selasphorus calliope
- Population: Estimated to be in the millions
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 2.8-3.5 inches
- Weight: Around 2-4 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 3-4 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird species in North America, occasionally graces Michigan during its migratory journey.
With vibrant magenta streaks on the males, these tiny hummingbirds exhibit incredible agility in flight, hovering as they feed on nectar from various blossoms.
Calliope Hummingbirds are known for their long migratory journeys, covering thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in the western United States and wintering grounds in Mexico.
Their presence in Michigan is a testament to the importance of maintaining diverse and suitable habitats along their migratory routes, underscoring their ecological significance as pollinators.
5. Mexican Violetear
- Scientific Name: Colibri thalassinus
- Population: Population size varies; listed as a species of Least Concern
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 4-5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 5-10 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 5-6 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Mexican Violetear, named for its vibrant violet-blue ear patch, is a charismatic hummingbird species that may occasionally be spotted in Michigan during migration.
These birds play a crucial pollinator role with their iridescent green plumage and distinctive markings. Mexican Violetears primarily feed on nectar, utilizing their specialized bills and extendable tongues.
Like other hummingbirds, they supplement their diet with insects and spiders for essential proteins. Their migration patterns underscore the need for preserving diverse and suitable habitats along migratory routes.
Conserving these habitats is essential for supporting the impressive journeys of Mexican Violetears and ensuring the health of their populations in the wild.
6. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris
- Population: Abundant, estimated in the tens of millions
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3-3.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 2-20 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 3-4 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, the only hummingbird species that breeds in eastern North America, is a familiar visitor to Michigan during its migratory season.
Known for the brilliant iridescence of the males’ ruby-red throat, these tiny birds are remarkable aerial acrobats. They primarily feed on flower nectar using specialized bills and extendable tongues.
Additionally, they catch insects in mid-air for essential proteins. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are highly territorial and often use aerial displays to defend their feeding territories.
Their migratory journey from Central America to Eastern North America underscores the importance of maintaining suitable habitats along their route.
7. Anna’s Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Calypte anna
- Population: Stable, with an estimated 1.5 million individuals
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3.5-4 inches
- Weight: Around 3-6 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 4-4.5 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
Anna’s Hummingbird, native to the western United States, is known for its stunning magenta crown and throat feathers.
While not a regular visitor to Michigan, sightings can occur during migration. These hummingbirds have adapted to urban environments, often found in gardens and parks.
Their feeding habits involve sipping nectar from a variety of flowers and catching insects in mid-air. Anna’s Hummingbirds are year-round residents in their breeding territories, demonstrating resilience in diverse habitats.
Entering a state of torpor during cold nights helps them conserve energy. As adaptable and charming birds, Anna’s Hummingbirds contribute to pollinating a wide range of flowering plants.
8. Costa’s Hummingbird
- Scientific Name: Calypte costae
- Population: Population size not precisely estimated
- Life Span: 3-5 years in the wild
- Size: 3-3.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 2-5 grams
- Food: Primarily nectar, supplemented by insects and spiders
- Wingspan: 4 inches
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Costa’s Hummingbird, known for its striking violet plumage and distinctive iridescent throat patch, primarily inhabits the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico.
While not a common visitor to Michigan, occasional sightings may occur during migration. Costa’s Hummingbirds have adapted to arid landscapes, utilizing desert flowers for nectar and small insects for proteins.
Their territorial nature often leads to aggressive displays against intruders. These hummingbirds are also known for their unique courtship displays, featuring intricate aerial maneuvers.
As with other hummingbirds, preserving diverse habitats along migration routes is crucial for supporting the natural behaviors and survival of Costa’s Hummingbirds.
Steps to Preserve Hummingbirds in Michigan
Preserving hummingbirds in Michigan involves creating an environment that supports their needs and addressing potential threats. Here are steps you can take to help preserve hummingbirds in the state:
Provide Adequate Food Sources
Plant a variety of nectar-rich flowering plants in your garden. Hummingbirds are attracted to tubular-shaped flowers with bright colors like red, orange, and pink.
Native plants are particularly beneficial as they are adapted to the local ecosystem.
Install Hummingbird Feeders
Set up hummingbird feeders filled with a homemade nectar solution. Mix four parts of water with one part of white granulated sugar, and avoid using red food coloring or artificial sweeteners.
Clean and refill feeders regularly to prevent the growth of harmful molds.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Keep your garden and hummingbird feeders clean to prevent the spread of diseases. Clean feeders at least once a week with a solution of hot water and white vinegar. Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
Provide Shelter and Nesting Sites
Hummingbirds need shelter for protection from predators and adverse weather conditions. Plant dense shrubs and trees where they can perch and find refuge. If suitable trees are unavailable, you can install small perches or roosting boxes.
Avoid Pesticide Use
Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides in your garden, as these chemicals can harm hummingbirds. Choose natural and eco-friendly alternatives to control pests and protect the ecosystem’s overall health.
Support Conservation Efforts
Contribute to and support local and national conservation efforts to protect bird habitats and biodiversity. Get involved in community projects that preserve natural areas and create bird-friendly spaces.
Educate Others
Raise awareness about the importance of hummingbirds and their conservation. Share information about the threats they face and the actions people can take to help. Encourage others to adopt bird-friendly practices in their own yards.
Participate in Citizen Science Programs
Join citizen science initiatives or bird monitoring programs to contribute valuable data on hummingbird populations. This information helps researchers understand population trends and make informed conservation decisions.
Monitor Windows and Reflective Surfaces
Hummingbirds can collide with windows and other reflective surfaces. Place decals or other bird-friendly markings on windows to help prevent collisions. This simple step can reduce the risk of injury or mortality.
Be Responsible with Outdoor Cats
If you have outdoor cats, consider keeping them indoors, especially during the breeding season. Cats are a significant threat to hummingbirds and other small birds.
By taking these steps, you can contribute to preserving hummingbirds in Michigan and create a more hospitable environment for these enchanting birds.
Wrapping Up
Fostering a hummingbird-friendly environment in Michigan involves a combination of providing proper nutrition, maintaining a clean habitat, and supporting conservation efforts.
By planting native flowering plants, installing clean feeders, and minimizing environmental threats, individuals can play a crucial role in preserving hummingbird populations.
Educating others about the significance of these enchanting birds and participating in citizen science programs further contribute to their conservation.
As we embrace bird-friendly practices, we enhance our surroundings and actively participate in the broader effort to protect Michigan’s hummingbirds and their delicate ecosystems.