Hummingbirds flock to Alabama during fall migration season. Here's what to know

Each August, Alabama's skies turn into a highway for one of nature's tiniest long-distance travelers: the ruby-throated hummingbird.

Sightings of the tiny, fluttering birds in the fall are at their most significant number as they make their way to Central America for the winter.

Hummingbirds can cover impressive distances during migration, flying up to 23 miles daily. When crossing the Gulf of Mexico, they can soar as far as 500 miles in a single day, according to Hummingbird Central.

Alabama is a vital stop for hummingbirds during migration, offering rich feeding grounds when they need them most. Native plants like trumpet vine, coral honeysuckle and beebalm provide high-energy nectar, while the state's mix of forests, gardens and coastlines creates ideal resting spots.

What hummingbirds eat and what you can feed them at home

Hummingbirds are drawn to red flowers, so planting petunias, salvia and hibiscus around your home and garden can help attract them.

If planting isn't an option, you can easily lure them with a homemade nectar solution of 1 part sugar to 4 parts warm water in a feeder, bringing these charming visitors right to your yard.

Be sure to clean your feeders weekly with a rinse of vinegar and hot water, and always discard any cloudy or old nectar. It's essential to prevent mold from forming on the feeders to keep them safe for the hummingbirds.

It's wise to place multiple feeders around your home, as male hummingbirds can be territorial and frequently clash with other males vying for access to the feeder.

What are the most popular hummingbirds in Alabama?

The ruby-throated hummingbird is found throughout Alabama. Males are easily recognizable by the vibrant red patch on their throats and dark green backs, while females lack the red throat and have a lighter green coloration on their backs.

Rufous hummingbirds can also be spotted in Alabama, though they are less common than ruby-throated varieties. Like the ruby-throated male, rufous males sport a reddish throat patch, but theirs leans more toward an orange hue rather than deep red.

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: When hummingbirds migrate through Alabama and how to help