🐻 California Hummingbird Migration: When to Hang Your Feeders (2025 Guide)

California is a unique paradise for hummingbirds. Unlike most of the US, many parts of the state enjoy hummingbirds year-round. However, the massive spring migration brings millions of new visitors who are just passing through.

Here is your 2025 guide to the California hummingbird season.

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📅 The California Schedule

🌴 Southern California (San Diego, Los Angeles, Palm Springs)

• Arrival Date: Year-Round Residents
• The Scoop: You have Anna’s and Costa’s hummingbirds all winter! But the migratory species like the Allen’s and Rufous start showing up in February.
• Tip: Keep your feeders clean and full 12 months a year.

🌉 Northern California (Bay Area, Sacramento, Eureka)

• Arrival Date: Early to Mid-March
• The Scoop: While some Anna’s stay year-round, you’ll see a massive surge in birds in March as they head towards Oregon and Washington.
• Tip: Have your feeders ready by March 1st.

⛰️ The Sierras & Eastern California (Tahoe, Mono Lake)

• Arrival Date: April to May
• The Scoop: These high-altitude birds wait for the snow to melt before they arrive.
• Tip: Expect Broad-tailed and Calliope hummingbirds (the smallest bird in North America!).

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🌸 Top California Native Plants for Hummingbirds

California has amazing native flora. To attract more birds, plant these:

1. California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum): A late-summer and fall blooming favorite.
2. Hummingbird Sage (Salvia spathacea): Specifically evolved for hummingbird pollination.
3. Manzanita (Arctostaphylos): Early winter blooms that sustain resident birds.

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🛠️ California Feeder Tips

• Beware of Drought: If local flowers are lacking, your feeder is a vital lifeline. Use our 4:1 Nectar Recipe.
• The Best Feeder: For high-wind areas or the coast, use a Window-Mounted Feeder to keep the birds close and safe.

Enjoy your year-round visitors, California!