Anne Taylor
The season is changing, leaves are falling, and the air has that crisp, cool feeling of autumn. There may be another change you’re starting to notice—the hummingbirds you’ve seen all summer have disappeared. If you haven’t seen those beloved birds in a while, you’re probably wondering if they’ll ever come back.
How do Hummingbirds Find Feeders?
When Do the Hummingbirds Come Back?
How do Hummingbirds Find Feeders?
If you aren’t sure if your hummingbirds will come back, the answer is a positive one. Research affirms that, yes, your hummingbird visitors will return next year! These tiny travelers are known for their incredible homing abilities. They don’t just come back to the same general area, they often return to the very same feeder (or feeders) every year.
So how do hummingbirds find feeders? The answer lies in their remarkable memory and keen sense of direction. Hummingbirds are believed to remember every flower and feeder they’ve visited, using this information to plot their journey.
The intricate details of this navigation system remain a mystery, but one thing is clear. When they depart for warmer climates, they’re just taking a temporary break and will be back in your yard when the weather warms up again.
When Do the Hummingbirds Come Back?
If they have already left for the winter, when do the hummingbirds come back? The exact timing varies based on your location, but generally, you can expect hummingbirds to start reappearing in late March to early April in most parts of the U.S. If your birds haven’t left your yard yet, you can expect them to leave by the late fall.
You should have your feeders ready in time for their arrival. That being said, you shouldn’t leave your hummingbird feeders out all year long. If you keep their feeders out after it starts to get cold, they might be tempted to stick around longer in the freezing weather, risking their health. It’s best to put away feeders by late fall and bring them out again by late March or early April.
You should also be sure to put your feeders up in the same location every year. This will help your hummingbirds find their way back successfully. Make sure you have a spot near your home that is sturdy and won’t change much from season to season, like a strong tree branch or a windowsill.
BOLITE Hummingbird Feeder
If you want something a little fancier, this is a great option.
$19.99 
Missing your little green friends and wondering, “When do the hummingbirds come back?” Don’t worry. Your hummingbird visitors have not said their final goodbyes. They’ve simply taken a vacation and will be back next year, ready to enjoy your food in the spring.
