Hummingbird Migration on the Mississippi Coast

Every fall, my backyard in Ocean Springs transforms into a pit stop for some of the smallest — and toughest — travelers you’ll ever see. The ruby-throated hummingbirds are on the move, making their way south for the winter. Right now, they’re everywhere.

A Buzzing Backyard

I’ve set out three feeders, and they’ve been buzzing nonstop. Some birds swing by for a quick sip before moving on. Others seem to take over a perch and defend it like it’s prime beachfront property. Watching them dart, hover, and chase each other is better than TV or scrolling through social media most days.

The Challenge of Photography

I can’t help but turn this little backyard show into a project. Hummingbirds are notoriously tricky to photograph. Their wings beat up to 80 times a second, and they rarely sit still. This year, I’ve been setting up my strobe to try something different: hummingbird portraits. With a flash timed just right, I can freeze those split-second moments where their wings hang in midair or their throat catches the light.

It’s wild to see the details that normally blur right past your eyes — the shimmer of feathers, the textures on their tiny wings, and of course, that flash of ruby-red on their throats. The strobe makes it possible to see what you’d never catch otherwise.

Patience is Key

Of course, getting the shot isn’t easy. It means sitting still, waiting, and letting the birds get comfortable with my presence. But honestly, I love that part. There’s something peaceful about hanging out with these little travelers, knowing they’re on their way to Central America or even farther. My yard is just one quick stop on their long journey south.

Feeding the Hummingbirds

If you live along the Gulf Coast, now’s the time to put out feeders. Migration usually peaks from mid-September into early October. The recipe is as simple as it gets: four parts water to one part white sugar, no red dye needed. Put a feeder near a window or in a shady spot, and you’ll be surprised how quickly the birds find it.

Capturing the Moment

I’ve started building a collection of my favorite shots from this season. If you want to see them, check out my Bird Photography Portfolio. It’s been a fun challenge to capture something so fast and fleeting, and I’ll keep adding to the gallery as migration continues.

The Beauty of Migration

Every year, the hummingbird migration reminds me how much life passes through the Gulf Coast. These birds may be tiny, but their journey is massive — and we get front-row seats to watch it happen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ruby-throated hummingbirds bring a burst of energy and beauty to my backyard each fall. Their migration is a reminder of nature’s wonders. So, grab your feeders and enjoy the show! You won’t regret it.