Tennessee is home to a variety of hummingbird species that either reside in or migrate through the state each year. Hummingbirds are attracted to the abundance of native flowers and artificial feeders that provide nectar for these tiny birds.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is the most common hummingbird seen in Tennessee. This species is found across Eastern North America and is the only breeding hummingbird in Eastern United States. The ruby-throated hummingbird gets its name from the vivid ruby red throat patch on the male birds. Females lack the red throat and are identified by their white undersides and green backs.
Ruby-throated hummingbirds arrive in Tennessee in early spring to establish breeding territories. They prefer areas with lots of flowers and sources of nectar such as yards, parks, and meadows. Males perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. Once paired, the female builds a tiny cup-shaped nest out of plant down and spider webs, typically on a downward hanging tree limb. She lays 2 pea-sized white eggs and incubates them for 2 weeks. The eggs hatch and the young fledge in about 3 weeks.
Most ruby-throats migrate back to Central America for the winter, although some may overwinter in Florida or along the Gulf Coast. Their diet consists of nectar, tree sap, and small insects. A ruby-throated hummingbird may visit more than 1,000 flowers per day and its wings can beat up to 200 times per second!
Rufous Hummingbird
The rufous hummingbird is a western species that migrates through Tennessee in spring and fall. Their breeding range extends along the Pacific Coast and they winter in Mexico. Male rufous hummingbirds are bright orange on the back and belly. Females are greenish-orange on the back only. Both have white undersides.
Rufous hummingbirds begin arriving in Tennessee as early as July and stay through October during fall migration. They are commonly seen in gardens, meadows, and woodland areas. While not breeding in Tennessee, they temporarily stop here to refuel on nectar and insects before continuing their grueling 3,000 mile migration.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The black-chinned hummingbird is another western species found in Tennessee primarily during fall migration. Their breeding range is across the western United States and southern Canada. Winters are spent in Mexico.
Males have a black throat with a thin band of iridescent purple. Females lack the dark throat and are more difficulty to distinguish. Both have pale white undersides. Black-chins pass through Tennessee from July through September as they migrate south for winter.
Rare and Accidental Species
In addition to the common species above, several rare vagrant hummingbird species have been spotted in Tennessee, especially during fall migration:
- Anna’s hummingbird
- Allen’s hummingbird
- Broad-billed hummingbird
- Broad-tailed hummingbird
- Calliope hummingbird
These unusual sightings likely represent lost individuals blown off course during migration. Some hummingbird enthusiasts try to draw in rare species by strategically placing feeders and landscaping with preferred flowers.
When and Where to See Hummingbirds in Tennessee
Here is a summary of when and where the most common hummingbird species can be found in Tennessee:
Species | Range in Tennessee | Peak Sighting Timeframe | Preferred Habitats |
---|---|---|---|
Ruby-throated | Statewide | April – October | Yards, parks, meadows |
Rufous | Statewide | July – October | Fields, woodland edges |
Black-chinned | Statewide | July – September | Forest and scrub |
Providing Food and Shelter for Hummingbirds
Here are some tips to attract hummingbirds to your yard in Tennessee:
Flowers
Plant plenty of nectar-rich, tubular flowers in red, orange, and pink colors. Some good options include:
- Bee balm
- Cardinal flower
- Impatiens
- Petunias
- Salvia
- Trumpet vine
- Verbena
- Weigela
Feeders
Use feeders designed especially for hummingbirds and fill them with a nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Avoid any food coloring. Hang feeders in a shady spot and clean them weekly.
Water
Provide a water mister or dripping fountain for hummingbirds to bathe and drink.
Shelter
Hummingbirds appreciate small trees and shrubs which offer protection from predators and harsh weather while they rest.
Interesting Facts About Hummingbirds
Here are some fascinating tidbits about these small but mighty birds:
- Hummingbird hearts beat up to 1,260 times per minute.
- Their wings rotate in a full circular motion rather than up and down.
- They are the only birds able to fly backwards.
- Their feet are only used for perching, not walking or hopping.
- Hummingbirds consume half their weight in nectar each day.
- They build the smallest nests in the bird world, about half the size of a golf ball.
Conclusion
Tennessee provides essential breeding habitat and migratory stopover places for both resident and visiting hummingbird species. The most reliable hummingbirds to spot are the ruby-throated from spring through fall and rufous in late summer and autumn. Creating a garden with tubular blooms, nectar feeders, water features, and small trees and shrubs will help attract these tiny, fast-flying birds. With a little effort, you can enjoy watching hummingbirds zipping around your yard through the warmer months in the Volunteer State.