How to Track Ruby-throated and Rufous Hummingbird Migration Spring 2006 Getting Started Hummingbirds and Their Marathon Migrations When Ruby-throated Hummingbirds return to nest in the U.S. and Canada this spring, they will have just completed a remarkable journey back from Mexico and Central America! In the Western U.S. and Canada, the Rufous Hummingbird travels the farthest north of any hummingbird to breed—all the way to Alaska. You can plot these return trips and learn what it takes for hummingbirds—and other "neotropical" migrants—to complete this epic journey. As you do, you'll discover answers to these types of questions: Why do they risk this dangerous trip? How far can they fly in a day? What do they need to survive? How can we help them and their babies? Hummers Are Hungry When They Arrive It's hard to believe, but many of these tiny dynamos fly directly over the Gulf of Mexico to the Louisiana or Texas coast—at least 500 miles non-stop—without any possibility of finding rest or food. Then they migrate by day, feeding along the way as flowers open and reveal their energy-rich nectar. These remarkable birds will appreciate your feeders and garden flowers to welcome them! Try these other Hummingbird lessons and activities. Integrate Hummingbirds into Journey North's study of the seasons. Identify Two Hummingbird Species Observe Seasons and Habitat Changes Follow Hummingbird Migration News Write in your Hummingbird Migration Journal Predict the Path the Hummers Will Travel Map Hummingbirds' Spring Migration Report Your Hummingbird Sightings Unpave the Way for Hummingbirds Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form.