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Home / Blogs / Creating a Haven for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
June 20, 2025
A Ruby-throated Hummingbird rests on a small branch. Photo credit: Skyler Ewing
Summer is here, and that means the peak of hummingbird season in the Chesapeake Bay region. Hummingbirds are the second largest group of birds in the world, and all of these species are found only in the Americas. Hummingbirds play an important role as pollinators and are necessary for a healthy ecosystem.
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), the only hummingbird that breeds in the mid-Atlantic region, makes a 500-mile trek to our area in one day. Although ruby-throated hummingbirds are increasingly found wintering in the warm southern United States and have become year-round residents, most spend their winters in southern Mexico and other parts of Central America where they feed on nectar from plants, pollen, and small insects. Weighing less than a nickel, ruby-throated hummingbirds bulk up in their winter habitat to prepare for the long journey to the mid-Atlantic.
A Ruby-throated Hummingbird feeds on a fruit bearing plant.
Hummingbirds have adapted well to human development, but climate change, habitat loss, and breeding ground fragmentation remain ongoing challenges. Many introduced and invasive species offer little to no nectar and can prevent the growth of other nectar-producing native plants. There are steps we can take in our own spaces and communities, however, to help these flying jewels thrive!
Grow native plants that are attractive to hummingbirds and bloom at various times to provide a constant source of nectar. Hummingbirds have co-evolved with specific native flowering herbaceous perennials, shrubs, and vines, and need them for fuel. Hummingbirds have extremely high metabolism and can burn up to 12,000 calories per day, the human equivalent of 150,000 calories! So, consistent energy sources are paramount. Research shows that native plants have a greater concentration of insects than non-native plants, which all birds need for food.
Find the right native plant for your space with our Native Plant Center.
The native Eastern red columbine in a garden in southeast Washington, DC.
When managing your own hummingbird haven, avoid chemicals that harm birds and other wildlife, including the insects hummingbirds eat. Small insects and spiders are an important source of protein for hummingbirds and nesting ruby-throated hummingbirds are primarily fed small spiders.
Pesticide use also pollutes local groundwater and waterways. Recent research shows certain insecticides impact hummingbird metabolism, contributing to their decline. If you must treat a plant due to disease or infestation, choose organic options or neem oil and apply it in the evening. Avoid any service that sprays for so-called pests all over your yard, including for mosquito control.
Domestic and feral cats are the most common predators of backyard birds, including non-nested hummingbirds. House cats are also considered one of the world’s worst invasive species! A 2013 study, which collected information on predation studies, found that bird mortality caused by outdoor domestic cats ranged from 2-4 billion annually. Cats stalk birds from porches and bushes and the aerial acrobatics of hummingbirds are particularly attractive to their keen hunting instincts. Encourage your neighbors and friends to keep their cats indoors too. Who knows? They might be inspired to plant some native plants as well after a conversation. Finally, if you keep water sources and nectar feeders in your space for hummingbirds, ensure that feral cats cannot access them.
Birds play a crucial role in a balanced ecosystem. By suppressing their populations through irresponsible domestic cat ownership, humans are negatively altering our ecosystem and harming the environment.
In 2024 the DC area experienced 38 days without measurable rain. The lack of rain makes alternative water sources essential for all local wildlife. Including a source of fresh and clean water in your yard is useful for all wildlife, including hummingbirds which need water to drink and wash. They are attracted to light mist and moving water. If you have a birdbath, add a bubbler or misting device and make sure the water is shallow enough for small birds. Like all birds, diseases can be transmitted through feeders and bird baths. A clean and sanitary water source will keep the bird bath safe for all birds that visit your space. Change the water frequently and scrub the bird bath weekly with soap and water, not toxic cleaners. To prevent mosquito larvae from hatching in a bird bath, you can empty and refill the water regularly, or use Mosquito Dunks, which are safe for birds and other wildlife. Emptying the water every few days will remove any mosquito eggs or larvae that may be present. Mosquito Dunks contain a larvicide that kills mosquito larvae but is non-toxic to birds, fish, and other animals.
Taking small steps in our own spaces can help create healthy environments for hummingbirds to thrive and return year after year! What do you do to create a haven for hummingbirds?
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