Where are the hummingbirds?

Question: Dear Master Gardeners, I have noticed a decline in the number of hummingbirds in my garden and in my feeders, can you tell me where they have gone?

Answer: Although, there is no one correct answer, there are some theories on their decline. There are no Federal monitoring practices or guidelines to collect data, so relying on scientists and ecologists, along with birding enthusiasts, we can gather information on how much of a decline is happening.

For instance, the most significant decline appears to be happening on the west coast. States such as California, Oregon and Washington have seen as much as 80 to 90 percent decline in sightings. The southwest states such as Arizona are down 50 to 70 percent and lower numbers also in southeast coastal states such as Louisiana and Alabama have seen significant declines. In the northeast the data seems to be inconclusive and more needs to be collected. One theory of the decline is the shifting weather patterns which cause hot, dry conditions which parch flowering plants that the hummers depend on for nutrients, especially when migrating to their overwintering locations.

Another theory is habitat loss, due to development and increased agricultural practices. Both elements have decimated native grass and shrub lands, which provide nutrients for the birds. Since 2016, 12 million acres in the Western US have seen such a change. Decline in the insect population in which the hummers get essential proteins could be another culprit in the decrease in bird numbers. Human impacts, use of pesticides and invasive species contribute to insect decline. Disease is also a contributing theory on the hummer’s low numbers. With inadequate nutrition and decreasing foraging habitat it creates stress on the bird making them more vulnerable. But, all is not doom and gloom, we as individuals and communities through education and sustained healthy gardening practices can help do our part to help the wonderful, tiny and beneficial birds coming back year after year.

By planting more nectar rich native plants, keeping our feeders clean and fresh, and reducing the use of inorganic pesticides, we will ensure the next generation of hummer’s have a fighting chance of survival. The University of TN has a wonderful publication that we encourage everyone to read and find out more about these birds. Go to https://utextension.tennessee.edu/publication and type in hummingbirds and look at publication number W 305. It is very informative. Thank you for your question and Happy Gardening!

Send questions to rheacomg@gmail.com or write to Rhea County Extension Office, c/o Master Gardeners, 125 Court Street, Suite 3, Dayton, TN, 37321.