Texas’ Amazing Hummingbirds and the Hummingbird Round-Up

In the state of Texas some 18 different species of hummingbirds have been identified and another seven species have the potential to be seen occasionally within the state. In southeast Texas the most commonly know hummingbird species is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. During March-May, which is the spring migration season, the Ruby-throats will pass through the area as they continue to make their migratory journey northward. Starting around mid-July you will gradually begin to see the hummingbirds which are migrating southwards begin to appear in greater numbers.

There are several species of hummingbirds which are known to spend the winter in Texas. The Rufous and the Black-chinned Hummingbirds are the most commonly known species to winter in Texas. Although it is very rare, on occasion you will also find Allen's, Anna's, Calliope, Costa's, Broad-tailed and Buff-bellied hummingbirds.

If you are a truly avid hummingbird watcher, you may even be fortunate enough to occasionally have the opportunity to view much rarer species of hummingbirds such as Broad-billed or even a Green-breasted Mango or Green Violet-ear which sometimes appear in Texas. If this rare event occurs you can count yourself among the fortunate few to have witnessed this event.

If you like to identify the various species of hummingbirds that visit your feeders then why not share this valuable information with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department through your participation in the Hummingbird Round-Up. This program enables the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologist and the citizens of Texas to learn more about the various hummingbird species found in Texas and the environmental needs of these beautiful and remarkable birds.

The Hummingbird-Roundup is of great importance to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The reason for this is quite simple. It is impossible for biologist to be everywhere within the state at the same time to observe the birds’ movements, so volunteers are asked to provide information that can be pooled with that of others from across the state to help provide a much clearer, more accurate picture of these birds and their habitat. Some species of hummingbirds have only been recorded a few times throughout their history so their story within the state of Texas is extremely minimal. The Hummingbird Round-Up is a program which enables citizens to assist biologist with the study of the birds’ feeding pattern, behavior, range and distribution.

If you wish to assist with the program, please contact the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at the address listed below or go to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website. There address is as follows: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744. Participants will be provided with a kit that includes a survey form and “A Quick Reference Guide to Texas Hummingbirds” booklet, with information on Texas’ species of hummingbird, how to clean and maintain feeders, and suggestions on additional plants for the garden.

Many species of hummingbirds are found in Texas, so no matter where in Texas you live you will likely see some in your area. If you enjoy watching hummingbirds and discovering interesting facts about them, then why not use your hobby as a way to benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in their continued efforts to gain valuable information and insight into the various hummingbird species found throughout the state of Texas.