Flight of the Hummingbirds Underway; Visiting GA in March

Thousands of tiny hummingbirds are traveling from their winter homes in the Caribbean and Central America, and will arrive in Georgia this month.

It's part the annual northern migration of the hummingbirds -- specifically the ruby-throated hummingbird -- as they head up to the US East Coast for their mating and nesting seasons. Typically, the tiny travelers reach the southern-most parts of Georgia in early March, then make their way north at about 20 to 30 miles per day. Based on historical patterns, they will reach the Atlanta area by March 20, and the northern borders of Tennessee and South Carolina by April 1.

Along the way, the hummingbirds will stop for resting and frequent feeding periods. With the highest metabolism of any species, they feed at hundreds of flowers and up to six times or more per hour, according to Hummingbirdsplus.org. Those stops are essential as hummingbirds generally consume at least half of their weight and as much as double or triple their weight in nectar each day. They also add some protein to their diets by eating some insects and spiders.

The best chance of spotting them is as they fly around a garden looking for food. Some local botanical gardens like Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw, Gibbs Gardens in Ballground and Atlanta Botanical Gardens feature special hummingbird areas where they concentrate nectar-producing flowers and other bushes that attract the tiny birds.

You can increase your chances of spotting them -- and maybe even getting them to nest nearby -- by placing feeders, their favorite nectar-laden plants and hummingbird-friendly plants.

Visit this link for more on the annual migration, their Georgia schedule, and other fun facts about these flitting flyers.