Best Time to See Hummingbirds in Virginia

August, September and July is the best time to see hummingbirds in Virginia. Based on 2,973 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when hummingbirds are most active across the year in Virginia.

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By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird photographed in VirginiaRuby-throated Hummingbird photographed in VirginiaRuby-throated Hummingbird photographed in Virginia
Photos by iNaturalist observers, used under Creative Commons.
Best months: August, September, JulyPeak season right now

2,973 verified observations of hummingbirds in Virginia, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.

When hummingbirds are recorded in Virginia

Peak month

August

831 records (28% of the year)

Quietest month

February

2 records

MonthObservationsShare
January160.5%
February20.1%
March70.2%
April2478.3%
May35311.9%
June36212.2%
Julypeak51117.2%
Augustpeak83128%
Septemberpeak52017.5%
October762.6%
November230.8%
December250.8%

Hummingbirds you are most likely to see

SpeciesVerified observations
Ruby-throated Hummingbird2,879
Rufous Hummingbird35
Calliope Hummingbird8
Anna's Hummingbird6
Allen's Hummingbird4
Black-chinned Hummingbird4
Buff-bellied Hummingbird3

Sightings of hummingbirds in Virginia peak in August, when 831 of the year's 2,973 verified observations are logged β€” about 28% of the annual total. Activity stays high through August, September and July.

The quietest stretch is February, when hummingbirds are hardest to find β€” February sees just 2 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.

The hummingbirds you are most likely to encounter in Virginia are Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird and Calliope Hummingbird β€” the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.

Where to go

Best places to see hummingbirds in Virginia

  • Appalachian National Scenic Trail β€” National Scenic Trail
  • Appomattox Court House National Historical Park β€” National Historical Park
  • Assateague Island National Seashore β€” National Seashore
  • Blue Ridge Parkway β€” Parkway
  • Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail β€” National Historic Trail
  • Chesapeake Bay
Plan your tripAppalachian National Scenic Trail

Plan your hummingbird trip in Virginia

Start with live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail, then compare a nearby stay and a broader wildlife backup before you lock in the trip.

Gear to see them

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to see hummingbirds in Virginia?+

August is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through August, September and July, based on 2,973 verified iNaturalist observations.

When are hummingbirds hardest to see in Virginia?+

February is the quietest month for hummingbirds in Virginia, with only 2 verified records.

Are hummingbirds active year-round in Virginia?+

Hummingbirds are recorded in 12 of 12 months in Virginia, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in August.