May 12, 2026 - Where are the HUMMINGBIRDS!? - Ask Extension
Hello! In social media, I keep reading about the whereabouts of our hummingbirds lately. It's seems that most, if not all, of the hummingbirds sudden...
Knowledgebase
May 12, 2026 - Where are the HUMMINGBIRDS!? #931482
Asked May 12, 2026, 3:29 PM EDT
Hello! In social media, I keep reading about the whereabouts of our hummingbirds lately. It's seems that most, if not all, of the hummingbirds suddenly disappeared within the past couple weeks, between Knappa and Cannon Beach. Is this due to migration, nesting or lack of a fresh food source!? Or could it be worse, such as climate change, etc. Rather than add to these posts by guessing, Id rather site a reputable source. So here I am, asking you, the pros! Thank you in advance for your time!
Clatsop County Oregon
Expert Response
Big, long-term questions of how climate is and will affect populations and distribution are beyond what we have data for yet. However, within a season, it is not unusual for folks to observe variations in feeder use or attendance by hummingbirds. I suspect we're in the phase in which females are raising young and selecting highly-nutritious small insects for their fuel source. However soon, the parents will be freed up, the offspring will be heading forth, and we'll see an uptick in the numbers of birds at feeders. So bottom line is to do what you're likely already doing by keeping small, fresh batches available in frequently-cleaned feeders, and look forward to increased need & feeding behavior as number of birds increases and then later in summer as blooms start withering in the heat.
