Contact:

Tim Patronski, 612-418-9148

Tim_Patronski@fws.gov



U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Region Statement On Rufous Hummingbird Captured in St. Paul, Minnesota

November 14, 2014



Rufous Hummingbird courtesy of Roy W. Lowe.

A St. Paul resident recently captured a rufous hummingbird in her yard, presumably to rescue it from the cold weather. The rufous hummingbird is a common bird species, but rare to this area as they are typically found in the Pacific Northwest and winter in the southeastern United States and Mexico. Since we became aware of its capture, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been working with our partners to determine which option is best for the health of the bird going forward. As we assess our options, the bird is being held by a permitted migratory bird rehabilitator.

While the individual who captured this bird was likely acting with the best of intentions, in these situations, the best thing to do is to leave the bird alone. Although rare, birds can stray from their normal migration pathways, which would explain the presence of this bird in Minnesota, but they usually find their way back to their breeding or wintering grounds. For individuals feeding hummingbirds in Minnesota, it is best to stop feeding them in September when the weather begins to get cold which will encourage these birds to continue their migration south. Additionally, if you come upon a bird that you believe to be injured, again the best thing to do is to leave the bird alone, often they recover on their own. If you feel the need to help, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. Use caution when dealing with injured birds.

More information about migratory birds visit: http://www.fws.gov/midwest/midwestbird/faq.html

For a list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area, visit: http://www.wildliferehabinfo.org/ContactList_MnPg.htm.