September Hummingbirds: Feeding Frenzy Before Migration
As summer fades into fall, hummingbirds begin one of the most critical stages of their yearly cycle—hyperphagia. This is a state of intense feeding that takes place in late summer and early fall, especially noticeable during September. If you’ve seen hummingbirds darting from flower to feeder more than usual, it’s because they’re preparing for one of the most remarkable migrations in the bird world.
What Is Hyperphagia?
Hyperphagia is a natural biological drive in which hummingbirds enter a feeding frenzy mode. Their tiny bodies are working overtime to store as much energy as possible before migration. While a typical hummingbird weighs around 3 grams, during hyperphagia they nearly double their weight, reaching 5–6 grams. That might not sound like much, but for a creature this small, it’s the difference between survival and exhaustion.
Why September Is Critical
- Migration Prep: Many hummingbirds in North America migrate thousands of miles, with some traveling all the way to Central America.
- Fuel for the Journey: By gaining 25–40% body mass in just a few weeks, they build up fat reserves to sustain them during long, non-stop flights.
- Increased Activity: You’ll often see more hummingbirds at feeders this month as they compete for nectar-rich resources.
How You Can Help Hummingbirds This Month
- Keep Feeders Full
- Use the classic recipe: 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water (no dye needed).
- Clean feeders every few days to prevent mold.
- Plant Late-Season Blooms
- Flowers like salvia, trumpet vine, and zinnias provide natural nectar.
- Native plants are especially beneficial.
- Provide Safe Resting Spots
- Small trees, shrubs, or even garden perches give hummingbirds a safe place to rest between feedings.
- Don’t Take Down Feeders Too Early
- Leaving feeders up until late fall ensures stragglers have fuel for the journey.
- Hummingbirds migrate by instinct, not feeder availability, so you won’t stop them from leaving.
Fascinating Hummingbird Facts in September
- A single hummingbird can visit hundreds of flowers per day while also defending a feeder as its territory.
- Their wings beat 50–80 times per second, which is why constant feeding is essential.
- Some hummingbirds travel up to 500 miles in a single nonstop flight across the Gulf of Mexico.
Final Thoughts
September is a month of transformation for hummingbirds. By entering hyperphagia, they prepare for one of the most demanding migrations of any bird species. Providing food, flowers, and safe habitats during this period helps ensure these tiny wonders have the energy they need to make their incredible journey.
So if you see your feeders busier than ever this month, enjoy the show—you’re witnessing a vital stage in the life of one of nature’s most extraordinary travelers.
