As of May 1, sightings of the tiny ruby-throated hummingbird are pouring in across the U.S., from Key Largo at Florida’s southern tip all the way up to Hayward, Wisconsin, according to Hummingbird Central.

Out west, birders have spotted various species too—Anna’s Hummingbirds along the California coastline and Rufus Hummingbirds throughout the Pacific Northwest. Texas welcomed Black-chinned Hummingbirds, while Broad-tailed Hummingbirds made an appearance in Colorado.

In Wisconsin, the ruby-throated hummingbird has been seen in every county, as shown on an interactive map by Wisconsin eBird. This map updates daily with sightings reported by bird enthusiasts.

Hummingbird Central’s own map shows these tiny travelers migrating from winter homes in Central America and Mexico to settle across the eastern U.S.

Wisconsinites Celebrate First Hummingbird Sightings

In Wisconsin, spotting the season’s first robin often signals spring’s arrival—but for hummingbird lovers, nothing compares to the return of these feathered fliers. As they follow blooming flowers and backyard feeders north, the reports start flowing in.

According to Hummingbird Central, Wisconsin recorded its first 2024 sighting on April 17 in Eagle River. A Kenosha birder spotted a ruby-throated hummingbird on April 18, noting, “Earliest ever for us. Glad I had feeders up!” Another enthusiast in Hayward County reported a male on April 30, remarking on the bird’s early appearance.

Birders in Fond du Lac and Brown counties submitted sightings on April 28. Along Lake Michigan, reports came in between April 23 and April 30. Stevens Point and Wausau also joined the list, with sightings on April 28 and April 30.

In southeast Wisconsin, observers noted punctual arrivals in Belgium, Mequon, Brookfield, New Berlin, and Wales. A birder in Menomonee Falls shared their excitement after spotting one on April 30, writing, “So excited to finally see one!”

You can view Hummingbird Central’s live migration map throughout spring and summer, and even report your own sightings here.

How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard

Want to see more hummingbirds in your backyard? Start by planting nectar-rich flowers that bloom throughout the season, and add feeders to supplement when flowers are scarce, according to the UW-Madison Department of Horticulture.

They suggest staggering bloom times to ensure a continuous food source. It’s also important to provide water and include tall shrubs or trees for nesting and perching. Avoid using pesticides, as hummingbirds rely on small insects as part of their diet.

Here are some top Midwestern plants recommended by UW-Madison to attract hummingbirds:

• Cuphea, especially David Verity varieties
• Cardinal flowers
• Coral honeysuckle
• Beebalm
• Texas or scarlet sage
• Blue anise sage

Where to Track and Report Bird Sightings in Wisconsin

If you’re a birdwatcher looking to contribute or stay updated on local sightings, here are some great resources:

• Wisconsin eBird – Report and track your daily birding adventures while seeing real-time updates from fellow birders.
• Wisconsin Society of Ornithology – Offers tools to report rare birds and guidance on using eBird for seasonal reports.
• The Great Backyard Bird Count – A worldwide initiative to monitor bird numbers and distribution. Wisconsin birders are encouraged to join in.
• Rare Bird Reporting – Help track species listed on Wisconsin’s Natural Heritage Working List.
• Report Sick or Dead Birds – Use the DNR directory of wildlife rehabilitators or reach out to your local office.

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