Hawaii
Are there hummingbirds in Hawaii?
No — and it's one of the more surprising facts in American birding.
There are no hummingbirds in Hawaii — they never crossed the Pacific on their own, and importing them is prohibited (hummingbirds could pollinate pineapple, causing seeds that ruin the fruit). The nectar-feeding niche belongs to native honeycreepers like the ʻiʻiwi and ʻapapane. Sugar-water feeders are best skipped in Hawaii; they mainly attract invasive birds and ants.
Curious where the action is? California's feeders host hummingbirds every month of the year.
California feeder datesFrequently asked questions
Why are there no hummingbirds in Hawaii?
Hummingbirds exist only in the Americas and never crossed the Pacific on their own. Importing them is prohibited — partly because hummingbirds could pollinate pineapple plants, producing seedy, unmarketable fruit. Hawaii's nectar-feeding niche belongs to native honeycreepers like the ʻiʻiwi and ʻapapane.
Should I put up a sugar-water feeder in Hawaii?
It's best not to. With no hummingbirds to serve, sugar-water feeders in Hawaii mainly attract invasive songbirds and ants. Planting native nectar flowers like ʻōhiʻa lehua supports the honeycreepers that actually belong there.
Where is the nearest place to see wild hummingbirds?
The US West Coast. California hosts six regular species, including Anna's Hummingbirds that visit feeders every month of the year.