Hummingbirds migrate south for the winter to escape the cold weather and lack of food in their northern breeding grounds. They navigate using a combination of innate migratory instincts, landmarks, and the Earth's magnetic field. Some species, such as the ruby-throated hummingbird, make a single long journey south, while others, like the rufous hummingbird, make several shorter stops along the way.
Flight Endurance
Hummingbirds are remarkable flyers and have evolved a number of adaptations that allow them to undertake long-distance migrations. They have a high metabolism and fast wing beats, which enable them to fly at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. They also have a unique ability to go into a state of torpor, during which their body temperature drops and their heart rate slows significantly. This allows them to conserve energy during long flights.
Stopovers
During their migration, hummingbirds make regular stopovers to refuel. They feed on nectar from flowers, and some species also eat insects and spiders. They typically stay at a stopover for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the availability of food.
Wintering Grounds
Hummingbirds spend the winter in a variety of habitats, including tropical forests, deserts, and coastal scrub. They typically stay close to areas where there is an abundance of food, such as flowering plants and insect populations. Some species, like the buff-bellied hummingbird, winter as far south as Central and South America, while others, like the calliope hummingbird, winter in Mexico and the southern United States.
Spring Migration
In the spring, hummingbirds migrate back to their northern breeding grounds. They use the same navigational techniques as they did during their fall migration, and they often follow the same routes. The timing of their migration varies depending on the species, but most hummingbirds arrive back in their breeding grounds by late April or early May.