South · Atlantic Flyway

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in North Carolina

Archilochus colubrisTrochilidae

CommonAbundance
Migrant / TransientSeasonal status
12Active months

About Ruby-throated Hummingbird in North Carolina

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds need abundant nectar flowers, tiny insects, perches, and safe cover. A sequence of native blooms is the foundation; a carefully maintained sugar-water feeder can supplement it.

In North Carolina, this species is classified as common. It passes through North Carolina during migration. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.

Monthly Activity — Ruby-throated Hummingbird in North Carolina

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

Colorsgreen, white, ruby red
Size7.5–9 cm
Habitatwoodland edge, garden, meadow
FamilyTrochilidae

Best Time to See Ruby-throated Hummingbird in North Carolina

January
Active
February
Active
March
Active
April
Active
May
Active
June
Active
July
Active
August
Active
September
Active
October
Active
November
Active
December
Active

Other birds in North Carolina

Birds you might also encounter in North Carolina.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in other states

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in North Carolina: Quick Facts

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is a common bird in North Carolina. It is classified as a migrant / transient in the state, falling within the South region and the Atlantic Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include woodland edge, garden, meadow. The best months to spot this species in North Carolina are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. For birders in Charlotte and throughout North Carolina, knowing the seasonal patterns of Ruby-throated Hummingbird can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

breeding visitor in eastern North America; winters mainly in Mexico and Central America. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in North Carolina using the related birds section.