Migration Events to Anticipate in Late Summer to Autumn
As you read this, fall migration will be well underway. This generally north-to-south movement follows a similar pattern each year. This list below gives you an idea of what to expect. But always remember, birds don’t read the books!
MID-JULY
Fall migration begins, with the first shorebirds moving southward.
MID-AUGUST TO MID-SEPTEMBER
The long-distance migrants are on the move, including some hummingbirds, flycatchers, orioles, grosbeaks and most warblers.
MID-SEPTEMBER TO MID-OCTOBER
The short-distance migrants join in, including Yellow-rumped, Palm and Pine Warblers, kinglets, thrushes, hawks and sparrows. Even a few owl species will migrate now!
MID-OCTOBER AND ONWARD
The last birds moving south of Minnesota will depart. A few will stay as long as weather and food supply allow. Watch for Tundra Swans going overhead in late October, headed for Chesapeake Bay! The “winter finches” such as juncos, siskins and redpolls will be coming in, possibly to stay for the winter.
This could be a warmer winter than usual. Keep your feeders filled for those unexpected visitors!
Contributed by Minnetonka Sales Associate MARK NEWSTROM
Mark Newstrom is a master bird bander and chair of the North Central Bird Observatory.