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Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds Begin Fall Migration: How to Help Them on Their Journey South

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9 months ago

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As summer winds down and cooler air moves in, Ruby-throated hummingbirds across the eastern United States are beginning their annual fall migration southward. These tiny but mighty birds are now passing through in large numbers, and backyard feeders play a critical role in helping them fuel up for their long journey.

Keep Feeders Out Through October

Wildlife experts are encouraging residents to keep hummingbird feeders out and stocked through at least late October, as this migration period will last several more weeks.

“This is one of the most active times of the year for hummingbirds,” says local birding enthusiast Lisa Raymond. “We’re seeing a huge push southward, especially with the arrival of recent cold fronts.”

Fueling an Epic Journey

The Ruby-throated hummingbird may weigh less than a penny, but its energy demands are immense:

  • Wing beats: Up to 80 times per second

  • Heart rate: Over 1,260 beats per minute

  • Feeding rate: Every 10–15 minutes

  • Daily intake: Up to 3 times their body weight in nectar and insects

“These birds are burning an extraordinary amount of calories during migration,” Raymond explains. “They rely on consistent food sources along the way — backyard feeders can literally be lifesavers.”

How to Help

Feeding hummingbirds is simple and safe:

  • Mix 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water

  • Boil briefly, then let cool

  • Do not use red dye — it’s unnecessary and potentially harmful

  • Clean feeders regularly (every 2–3 days in warm weather)

If you’ve noticed more hummingbirds than usual darting around your yard, you’re not alone. Reports of increased activity have come from across the region.

A Few More Weeks to Enjoy

Migration continues into late October, after which these birds will spend the winter in Central America, including southern Mexico and Panama. They’ll return north in the spring, following blooming flowers and warming temperatures.

Until then, take a moment to enjoy the spectacle — and help our feathered friends make it safely to their next stop.

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D-Day Remembrance Day: Honoring the Allied Invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944

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3 days ago

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June 6, 2026

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On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched D-Day (Normandy landings), part of Operation Overlord — the massive amphibious assault on Nazi-occupied France along the beaches of Normandy.

It became one of the largest and most consequential military operations of World War II, involving thousands of ships, aircraft, and ground troops from multiple Allied nations. The landings took place across five beaches — Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword — in a coordinated effort that would shape the course of the war in Europe.

The operation marked a decisive turning point, eventually leading to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control. The fighting on D-Day came at a tremendous cost, with thousands of soldiers killed or wounded on the first day alone.

Today, D-Day is remembered not only as a major military milestone, but as a moment defined by extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unity among ordinary people called to an extraordinary mission.

                       We honor and remember those who never made it home.

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Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones from Scams | Senior Fraud Prevention Tips

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3 days ago

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June 6, 2026

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Scammers often target older adults by pretending to be family members, government agencies, banks, healthcare providers, or technical support representatives. Their goal is to create panic, gain trust, and convince victims to send money or provide personal information.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors

• Grandparent scams involving fake emergencies and urgent requests for money

• Tech support scams claiming your computer has a virus or security problem

• Fake IRS, Social Security, Medicare, or law enforcement calls

• Lottery and sweepstakes scams promising prizes in exchange for fees

• Romance scams through social media, dating websites, and messaging apps

• Bank fraud and account compromise scams

• Investment and cryptocurrency scams promising guaranteed returns

Protect Yourself

✅ Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers to someone you do not know or have not verified.

✅ Verify any urgent request by contacting a trusted family member, friend, or organization directly using a known phone number.

✅ Never provide personal, banking, Medicare, or Social Security information over the phone unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient.

✅ Be cautious of callers who pressure you to act immediately, threaten consequences, or demand secrecy.

✅ Legitimate government agencies, financial institutions, and law enforcement organizations generally do not demand immediate payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or other unconventional payment methods.

✅ If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

📞 Hang up the phone or end the communication.

🛑 Stop responding to calls, texts, emails, or messages from the suspected scammer.

👨‍👩‍👧 Contact a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver.

📋 Report the incident to your local law enforcement agency, financial institution, or the appropriate consumer protection authorities.

Working together, we can help protect our community from fraud and scams. Stay informed, stay alert, and share this information with family, friends, and neighbors.

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