Most hummingbirds are long-distance migrants, and knowing their rough schedule helps you have fresh nectar waiting when they arrive — and keep it out long enough to help stragglers leave.
When hummingbirds return in spring
Hummingbirds head north in spring, arriving earlier in the south and later further north — generally between February and May. A good rule is to put your feeders out about two weeks before they typically appear in your area, so early arrivals find food waiting after their long journey.
When hummingbirds migrate south
In late summer and autumn — roughly August through October — hummingbirds fatten up and head south to warmer wintering grounds, some crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single flight. They migrate alone rather than in flocks, following food and instinct triggered by shortening days.
Leaving feeders up won't trap them
It is a myth that leaving a feeder up in autumn stops hummingbirds from migrating — their urge to leave is driven by day length, not by food. In fact, you should keep feeders up for about two weeks after you see your last hummingbird, to support late migrants passing through who badly need the fuel.