The most common hummingbird in Georgia during the winter months is the rufous. The rufous also has the distinction of breeding farther north than any other hummingbird. This feisty hummingbird nests as far north as southeastern Alaska.
I have banded a few rufous hummingbirds in Warner Robins over the years. Since only a handful of birds banded during the winder have ever been recaptured on their breeding grounds, I doubt a bird banded in Warner Robins has ever been recaptured at their breeding location.
Keeping a hummingbird feeder out throughout the winter is the best way to see a wintering hummingbirds; however, most folks never see a wintering hummingbird. If you continue to do so, you never know when one will show up. It is hard to describe the wonderful feeling that you experience. My wife and I rarely see one in the winter. However, just when we don’t expect to see one, we sometimes do. This makes the waiting worthwhile. Good luck!
Has anyone recorded a banded Rufous in Georgia and if so, where was its breeding location?
I have banded a few rufous hummingbirds in Warner Robins over the years. Since only a handful of birds banded during the winder have ever been recaptured on their breeding grounds, I doubt a bird banded in Warner Robins has ever been recaptured at their breeding location.
I do keep my feeder out year around, but so far I have ever had a hummer visit during the winter. Just want to help if any drop by.
Keeping a hummingbird feeder out throughout the winter is the best way to see a wintering hummingbirds; however, most folks never see a wintering hummingbird. If you continue to do so, you never know when one will show up. It is hard to describe the wonderful feeling that you experience. My wife and I rarely see one in the winter. However, just when we don’t expect to see one, we sometimes do. This makes the waiting worthwhile. Good luck!