For most hummingbird enthusiasts, the opportunity to host hummingbirds in their backyards extends from March through October. When the last hummingbird leaves on its fall migration one cannot hope but wish we could enjoy watching hummingbirds throughout the year. It is a little-known fact that some Georgians actually do host hummingbirds throughout the year. In order to do this, they are successful in attracting the tiny migrants during Georgia’s Second “Winter” Hummingbird Season. This season extends from November through February.
During this season, you can see more species of hummingbirds than at any other time of the year. The species you are most likely to see is the rufous. It is estimated that anywhere from 50-100 rufous hummingbirds annually winter in Georgia. Most of the others have been seen in Georgia only a handful of times.
If you want to have the rare opportunity of hosting one of these special birds this winter, maintain a feeder throughout the winter. There is no need to keep a feeder full of nectar; however, it is important that you change it regularly.
RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD by Terry W Johnson
We fondly remember having our female rufous and meeting you. She was special and that continued our birding adventures. We surely wish for one in Dalton. Just refreshed our 2 feeders yesterday.
It’s been nearly 20 years since we had a western hummingbird. We had Rufous 3 years. A male here was banded. We also had Calliope one year. Considering that all birds are fewer in number, it’s not surprising they haven’t been here in some time. Got some great photos of both.
We have what we think is a Rufous Hummingbird this winter.