North Dakota Hummingbirds: Species, Feeding & Attracting

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Hummingbirds in North Dakota: Ruby‑throated, Feeders, and Native Plants

Key takeaways for North Dakota hummingbirds

Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds are the only regular breeding hummingbirds in North Dakota, with Rufous the most frequently recorded western visitor and rare records of Broad‑tailed and other vagrant hummingbirds at feeders.

Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds typically arrive in North Dakota from early to mid‑May and most leave by early September, with some variation between the southeast, Missouri River corridor, and cooler northern and western parts of the state.

Put feeders out by late April or very early May so they’re ready for the first Ruby‑throated arrivals, and plan to take them down in mid‑September if you haven’t seen hummingbirds for about two weeks, while watching for rare late Rufous or other vagrant hummingbirds.

Use a simple 4‑to‑1 sugar‑water mix with no red dye, change nectar every 1–2 days in warm weather or every 3–5 days in cooler spells, and pair feeders with native plants like columbine, bee balm, cardinal flower, salvias, and hardy North Dakota perennials along river valleys, shelterbelts, and in prairie‑town gardens.

North Dakota hummingbird basics

North Dakota sits near the northwestern edge of the Ruby‑throated Hummingbird’s breeding range, and this species is the state’s only common nesting hummingbird. Ruby‑throateds use wooded river valleys, shelterbelts, farmstead plantings, prairie town yards, and gardens in larger cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks, visiting wildflowers and backyard feeders wherever nectar, cover, and perches are available.

These tiny birds migrate from wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America, moving up through the central and eastern U.S. each spring before reaching the northern Great Plains. A handful of western hummingbirds—especially Rufous, with occasional Broad‑tailed and other Selasphorus hummingbirds—occur in North Dakota as rare late‑season visitors at feeders, especially when people keep nectar out and report unusual hummingbirds.

What hummingbirds do you get in North Dakota?

For backyard birders in North Dakota, the everyday hummingbird at feeders is the Ruby‑throated Hummingbird, which breeds locally wherever suitable trees and nectar sources exist and is by far the most frequently seen species. Rufous is the most regularly documented western vagrant, with Broad‑tailed and occasional unidentified Selasphorus hummingbirds known from a small number of records, often at late‑season feeders in the Turtle Mountains, Pembina Hills, and other wooded or river‑valley areas.

Ruby‑throated Hummingbird – The classic eastern hummingbird and North Dakota’s only regular breeder.

Males have a bright ruby‑red throat that may look dark until the light hits it, metallic green upperparts, and whitish underparts, while females are green above and whitish below with a plain pale throat.

male Ruby-throated hummingbird

Less regular but notable species include:

Rufous Hummingbird – A small, fiery‑colored hummingbird that has become the most frequently documented western hummingbird in North Dakota, occurring mainly as a rare fall visitor at feeders.

Rufous Hummingbird

Males are rich rufous with an orange‑red gorget, and both sexes are famously feisty and territorial.

Broad‑tailed and other Selasphorus Hummingbirds – Western species recorded in North Dakota as very rare vagrants, often detected as “Selasphorus sp.” at late‑season feeders when careful observers document unusually colored hummingbirds.

Anna’s Hummingbird

Summary:
Common, regular species: Ruby‑throated.
Rare visitors: Rufous (most regular), plus occasional Broad‑tailed and unidentified Selasphorus hummingbirds.

When do hummingbirds arrive and leave North Dakota?

North Dakota is near the northern and western edge of Ruby‑throated Hummingbird breeding range, so birds arrive later here than in the Midwest and farther south. Regional migration maps and Great Plains sources indicate that Ruby‑throateds reach North Dakota mainly from early to mid‑May, with birds appearing first in the southeast and Missouri River corridor and a bit later in the Turtle Mountains, northern prairies, and higher, cooler areas.

After breeding and raising their young through the short northern summer, Ruby‑throateds begin leaving North Dakota in late August, with many departing in early September and most gone by about mid‑September as they head south toward their wintering grounds. As Ruby‑throateds depart, rare western hummingbirds such as Rufous and other Selasphorus hummingbirds may appear at feeders in September and occasionally later, especially where nectar is still offered and birders are watching carefully.

First arrivals:

  • Ruby‑throated: generally early to mid‑May across North Dakota, with earliest sightings in the southeast and along major river valleys.

Peak season:

  • Late spring through the short northern summer, roughly late May through August.

Most leave:

  • Late August through early September, with most Ruby‑throats gone by mid‑September.

Western visitors:

  • Rufous and other vagrants mainly appear from September into late fall.

When to put up and take down feeders in North Dakota

When to put feeders out

Migration guides for the central and northern Great Plains suggest putting nectar out by late April or very early May so feeders are ready when Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds arrive in North Dakota. Having feeders up slightly before peak arrival helps you catch the first males moving through and setting up territories in river‑valley woods and town yards.

Summary:
Statewide: have at least one feeder up by late April or the first days of May.
In the southeast and along the Missouri and Red Rivers: consider hanging a feeder by the third week of April if you enjoy watching for early migrants.

When to take feeders down

North Dakota bird checklists and hummingbird articles note that Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds usually leave the state by early to mid‑September. A good rule of thumb is to take feeders down around mid‑September if you haven’t seen any Ruby‑throats for about two weeks.

Because western hummingbirds like Rufous and other Selasphorus species can appear later in fall, some birders choose to keep at least one feeder up and monitor it closely, especially in more sheltered, wooded areas and towns where vagrants are most likely to be noticed.

Summary:
For most homeowners: take feeders down in mid‑September after two weeks with no Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds.
For people watching for rare western visitors: keep one clean feeder going into late September or even October, especially near wooded river corridors and in towns, and report unusual hummingbirds to the North Dakota Birding Society or state records committee.
Remember that migration is controlled by internal changes and day length, not by feeders, so leaving feeders up does not prevent hummingbirds from migrating.

Best hummingbird nectar recipe

The best nectar recipe for North Dakota is the standard mix recommended by national bird and conservation organizations: 1 part plain white sugar to 4 parts water. Bring the water to a boil, stir in the sugar until it completely dissolves, let the mixture cool, then fill clean feeders with clear nectar—there’s no need for red dye, because the red parts of the feeder are enough to attract hummingbirds and dyes are not recommended.

Because North Dakota summers can be hot and windy while spring and fall can be quite cool, use simple timing rules to keep nectar fresh. In warm weather, change nectar every 1–2 days, even if the feeder isn’t empty; in cooler spells, change it every 3–5 days. Always replace nectar right away if it looks cloudy, stringy, or shows any black specks, since those are signs of fermentation or mold that can harm hummingbirds.

All about nectar: how to use it effectively

Safe, homemade nectar is the single most important thing you can offer hummingbirds—and it’s much simpler than many guides make it sound. Check out my comprehensive main nectar article that will walk North Dakota readers through the same 4‑to‑1 sugar‑water recipe, how much to mix for different feeder sizes, and how often to change it at different temperatures so it never ferments or molds, plus ingredients to avoid and ways to keep insects from taking over.

If someone in North Dakota has ever wondered why their nectar spoils quickly during a hot, windy spell, whether they’re cleaning feeders often enough, or where to place feeders so hummingbirds actually use them, your nectar guide can give clear answers and link to deeper how‑tos on feeder placement, water features, and plantings for a full hummingbird‑friendly yard.

A clean hummingbird feeder is a must

Keeping feeders truly clean is just as important as using the right nectar recipe. Each time you change nectar, rinse the feeder with hot water and use a small brush to scrub around ports, seams, and any places where residue can build up; avoid strong scented soaps and always rinse thoroughly.

About once a month—or any time you see mold—give the feeder a deeper sanitizing soak using either a vinegar solution (1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water) or a diluted bleach solution (1 part household bleach to 10 parts water), followed by a very thorough rinse and complete air‑drying. My main detailed feeder‑cleaning guide will show North Dakota birders exactly how to remove mold, how to adjust cleaning frequency when temperatures swing from cool to hot and dry, which brushes and ant moats make the job easier, and how to keep bees and ants under control so feeders stay safe and attractive.

Where to hang feeders in North Dakota yards

North Dakota yards range from small town lots and farmyard shelterbelts to prairie‑edge acreages and riverside properties, but the placement basics are similar. Hang feeders near flowers, shrubs, or small trees so hummingbirds have perches and quick cover from predators, and aim for about 4–5 feet above the ground so birds feel secure and you can easily reach the feeders.

Keep feeders a few feet away from large windows or use decals and screens to reduce collision risk. Because strong sun and hot, dry winds can spoil nectar faster in midsummer on the plains, many North Dakota birders like spots with morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled light, which keep nectar cooler while still making feeders easy for birds to find. In especially windy or exposed locations—common on the open prairie—choose sites sheltered by buildings, trees, or fences so feeders don’t swing excessively, and add a few thin branches, wires, or swings nearby to give hummingbirds comfortable perches.

  • Use two or more small feeders instead of one large one.
  • Place feeders 10–15 feet apart or around corners so a dominant bird can’t guard them all at once.

Hang it in the right spot and they will come!

For a deep dive into perfectly placing your feeder for maximum results, check out my in‑depth guide on how to choose the best place to hang your hummingbird feeder. Discover exactly where to hang your hummingbird feeder for the best results. This complete guide walks you through sunlight and shade, height, distance from windows, wind and predator protection, and how close to place feeders to flowers so hummingbirds feel safe and visit often. You’ll also get practical tips on window feeders, hanging hardware, cleaning schedules by temperature, and simple tricks to stop ants and other pests. Check out the article for everything you need to turn one well‑placed feeder into a busy hummingbird hot spot.

Learn how hummingbird aggression impacts your backyard. This video explores territorial behavior and offers practical solutions for attracting more hummingbirds to your feeders. Discover several helpful strategies to encourage a more harmonious environment.

Native plants that attract hummingbirds in North Dakota

Native and region‑adapted plants are one of the best ways to draw Ruby‑throated and occasional western hummingbirds into North Dakota yards, because they’re adapted to local prairie soils, drought, and cold winters. Hummingbirds favor tubular, nectar‑rich flowers in red, orange, and bright pink, but they’ll also use purple, blue, and white blooms as long as the flowers produce good nectar.

Good native or region‑adapted perennials and wildflowers for North Dakota gardens include:

  • Wild or Canada columbine (Aquilegia species) – Nodding, red to orange spurred flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer and are highlighted as excellent hummingbird plants in northern regions.
  • Bee balm / wild bergamot (Monarda species) – Native mints with shaggy flower heads that offer abundant nectar for hummingbirds and other pollinators in sunny beds or prairie‑style gardens.
  • Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – Brilliant red, tube‑shaped flowers that can thrive in moist beds or along streams and are famous for attracting Ruby‑throateds wherever hardy.
  • Salvias / sages (Salvia species) – Long‑blooming plants with tubular flowers in red, purple, or blue that provide reliable nectar in protected, sunny beds and borders.
  • Other hardy perennials – Plants such as daylilies, hollyhocks, fireweed, delphinium, and certain penstemons and columbines provide color and nectar in appropriate North Dakota sites when matched to local conditions.

Shrubs and vines that can help in North Dakota landscapes include:

  • Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) and other non‑invasive honeysuckles – Clusters of red‑orange tubular flowers that hummingbirds readily visit in sheltered plantings.
  • Virginia creeper and other hardy vines, which offer blossoms, cover, and vertical structure on fences and trellises.

For the best results do this:
Plant in groups or drifts, not single specimens, so hummingbirds can feed efficiently at many blooms in one spot.
Mix early, mid‑season, and late bloomers so something is in flower from roughly May through September, matching North Dakota’s hummingbird season.
Use regional native‑plant tools to refine choices for your specific part of the state: Audubon’s Native Plants Database lets you enter your ZIP code to get a custom list of bird‑friendly native plants: https://www.audubon.org/native-plants.
These tools, combined with your own planting ideas and local nurseries that stock native species, make it easy for North Dakota readers to choose plants that will thrive in their climate and keep hummingbirds coming back.

Creating a hummingbird‑friendly yard in North Dakota

Here’s how to turn a typical North Dakota yard into true hummingbird habitat, with the right mix of flowers, feeders, perches, and water so Ruby‑throated and occasional western hummingbirds feel safe enough to visit often and stay longer.

Plant layers of native and hardy vegetation

Combine small trees, shrubs, vines, and flowering perennials to create a tiered garden with cover and perches at different heights. Native and region‑adapted plants support more insects and spiders for hummingbirds to eat and offer nectar‑rich, tubular flowers the birds are naturally drawn to.

Layered planting example for a North Dakota yard

In a sunny North Dakota yard, you might plant a small ornamental or native tree or large shrub at the back of a bed to provide structure and perching spots. In front of that, plant drifts of bee balm or wild bergamot (Monarda), which offer mid‑summer nectar for hummingbirds and other pollinators. Along the front edge and in moist or partially shaded spots, plant groups of columbine and cardinal flower, both highlighted by northern native‑plant and pollinator guides as excellent hummingbird plants. This three‑layer mix works in many North Dakota gardens and gives hummingbirds safe cover, perches, and nectar from late spring through late summer.

Plan for blooms from spring through fall

Include early, mid‑season, and late‑blooming plants so something is always flowering when hummingbirds are present in North Dakota. Plant in groups or drifts rather than isolated single plants so hummingbirds can feed efficiently and find blossoms more easily. My detailed guide The Art of Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard offers seasonal plant lists and layering ideas, making it easy for North Dakota birders to choose a few plants for sun and shade that will keep flowers in bloom all season long.

Use feeders to supplement, not replace, flowers

Feeders provide a reliable nectar source alongside your plants, especially in early spring and late summer when wild blooms may be sparse because of drought, hail, or temperature swings on the prairie. Hang them where they’re visible from your best flower beds so hummingbirds can move naturally between blossoms and sugar water.

Here is my favorite feeder and why I recommend this feeder: HummZinger Ultra 12‑oz Saucer Feeder.
If you’re tired of leaky bottle feeders and constant insect problems, this video explains why a simple saucer‑style Aspects feeder is my go‑to choice. You’ll see how the low, shallow 12‑ounce bowl helps you mix only what your hummingbirds can use before it spoils, while the built‑in ant moat, raised ports, and included Nectar‑Guard tips work together to keep ants, bees, and wasps out of the nectar. The drip‑proof design and twist‑off cover make cleaning and refilling quick and easy, so it’s realistic to keep nectar fresh even in warm weather. Made from tough, UV‑stabilized polycarbonate in the USA and backed by a true lifetime guarantee, this is a “buy it once” feeder you can count on year after year.

Provide safe perches and nesting cover

Keep some shrubs, small deciduous trees, and a few dead or thin branches where hummingbirds can rest, display, and build nests. Avoid pruning everything into bare, tight shapes; a slightly softer outline with twiggy tips gives birds more places to sit and watch over feeders and flowers.

A simple hummingbird swing or decorative perch placed a few feet from your feeder brings birds into perfect view and gives them a “guard post.” Hummingbirds may spend more time perched than many people realize, using these spots to rest, preen, digest nectar, and defend their favorite feeding areas. Once birds adopt a swing or perch, they often stay in the yard longer and make more frequent, relaxed visits.

Offer water in a way hummingbirds like

Consider adding a mister. Most people focus on feeders and flowers, but the right water feature can turn your North Dakota yard into a true hummingbird hangout. Hummingbirds prefer shallow, moving water—fine sprays, mists, and droplets on leaves—rather than deep, still birdbaths. Add a mister, dripper, or fine spray so hummingbirds can bathe in moving droplets on leaves or in a shallow basin.

You can also install a shallow birdbath with gently sloping edges—no more than about an inch of water—which gives hummingbirds a place to sip and splash at the edge. Position water features near, but not directly over, key flower beds so birds can move easily between bathing and feeding.

Placing Water Features for Maximum Hummingbird Activity

Where you place your water features matters as much as what you choose.
Near cover, not in the open: Position water within a few feet of shrubs, small trees, or tall perennials so hummingbirds can retreat quickly if they feel threatened.
Partial shade: Light shade keeps water cooler and reduces evaporation while still allowing enough sun for droplets to sparkle.
Close to nectar plants and feeders: Place water features near your hummingbird‑friendly flowers and feeders so birds can easily move between feeding and bathing.
Safe viewing distance: Set features where you can see them from a window, patio, or garden bench, but not so close that frequent traffic scares birds away.
If you have multiple water features, spread them around to reduce territorial conflicts and give more birds access.

For a comprehensive guide on using water features, check out my article: How to Use Water Features to Attract Hummingbirds. This guide will walk you through the exact kinds of misters, drippers, and shallow baths hummingbirds prefer, how deep and how strong the water flow should be, where to place everything so birds feel safe, and how to keep it all clean without spending a lot of money.

Skip pesticides and let insects thrive

Avoid or greatly limit pesticides, especially systemic insecticides, because hummingbirds and their chicks rely heavily on tiny insects and spiders for protein. A healthy, chemical‑free yard with native plants will naturally support more insects, which means more high‑quality food for hummingbirds.

My article Natural Pest Control Methods for Your Hummingbird Garden shows readers they don’t have to choose between a healthy hummingbird garden and effective pest control. It explains exactly how to prevent and manage pests using natural methods—companion planting, encouraging “good bugs,” organic sprays like garlic, pepper, and neem, physical barriers, and smart traps—so they protect their plants without poisoning hummingbirds or the insects they eat. It also gives clear, season‑by‑season checklists and safety tips (like where not to spray, how to avoid harming pollinators, and how to keep pest control away from nests and feeders), making it easy to follow even if you’re new to organic gardening. If you want fewer pests, stronger plants, and a garden that’s truly safe for hummingbirds from spring through fall, this is the article for you!

Keep Insects Away From Your Feeder

Bees, wasps, and ant trails can quickly take over a hummingbird feeder, but you don’t have to give up and bring the feeder in. My detailed guide: How to Keep Bees and Ants Away From Your Hummingbird Feeder walks you through the safest, most effective ways to keep pests out of your nectar—using ant moats, bee‑resistant feeders, smarter placement, and even “decoy” feeders that draw insects away—so the sugar water stays clean and available for hummingbirds only. If you’re tired of fighting swarms on your feeders and want a simple plan that actually works, this guide is your proven answer!

FAQ for North Dakota hummingbirds

What hummingbirds live in North Dakota?

Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds are the only regular breeding hummingbirds in North Dakota. Rufous Hummingbirds are rare but increasingly documented late‑season visitors, and Broad‑tailed and other Selasphorus hummingbirds are recorded as very rare vagrants, mostly at feeders.

When do hummingbirds arrive in North Dakota?

Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds typically arrive in North Dakota from early to mid‑May, with earliest sightings in the southeast and along major rivers and slightly later arrival in the northern and western parts of the state.

When do hummingbirds leave North Dakota?

Most Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds leave North Dakota from late August through early September, with the bulk of birds gone by mid‑September as they migrate south toward wintering areas in the southeastern U.S., Mexico, and Central America.

When should I put up hummingbird feeders in North Dakota?

Put your hummingbird feeders out in North Dakota by late April or very early May so they are ready for early arriving Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds and northbound migrants.

When should I take down hummingbird feeders in North Dakota?

A common recommendation is to take hummingbird feeders down around mid‑September if you have not seen any Ruby‑throated Hummingbirds for about two weeks, while keeping an eye out for rare western visitors later in fall.

What is the best hummingbird nectar recipe for North Dakota?

Use the standard recipe of 1 part plain white sugar to 4 parts water. Boil the water, stir in the sugar until it dissolves, let the mixture cool completely, and do not add red dye; the feeder’s red parts are enough to attract hummingbirds.

How often should I change hummingbird nectar in North Dakota?

In warm summer weather, change hummingbird nectar every 1–2 days, even if the feeder is not empty. During cooler periods, change it every 3–5 days, and always replace it immediately if the nectar looks cloudy, stringy, or shows any black specks.

Which hummingbird feeder styles work best in North Dakota?

Small 8‑ to 12‑ounce saucer‑style feeders are a good choice in North Dakota because they are easy to clean and allow you to offer fresh nectar in modest amounts. Feeders with built‑in ant moats and raised ports help keep insects out and reduce leaking during windy prairie storms.

What plants attract hummingbirds in North Dakota?

Nectar‑rich, tubular flowers such as columbine, bee balm, cardinal flower, salvias, and hardy honeysuckles attract hummingbirds in North Dakota. Choose region‑appropriate native or hardy species suited to your light, soil, and moisture conditions for the best results.

Where can I learn more about hummingbirds in North Dakota?

Resources such as the North Dakota Birding Society, state bird checklists, and Great Plains hummingbird articles provide detailed information on which species occur, when they are present, and how to identify and attract them.

Further resources for North Dakota hummingbird watchers


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