WSU Extension Yakima published a fact sheet titled 'Feeding Hummingbirds in Winter' on October 8, 2026, debunking the myth that keeping feeders out in October will prevent hummingbirds from migrating south.
The fact sheet states that the claim is false, noting that hummingbirds naturally migrate as winter approaches regardless of feeder presence. The information was provided by Carol Barany, a Yakima Master Gardener.