Spring migration is often characterized by large masses of brilliantly colored birds passing through Magee Marsh within a very brief time period. Fall migration does not give us the brightly colored hues that adorned many of our feathered friends in the spring, but it does give us more time to enjoy their passage to their southern wintering grounds.
Fall migrations are much more drawn out, and some sort of migration can be seen from as early as July to as late as early January. By knowing the general sequence of migration and the favorable weather conditions, we can enjoy the many sights and sounds of these fall flights.
Weather Watch
Look for northerly winds and Canadian cold fronts. These cold air masses bring lower temperatures, winds coming in the direction of the migrating birds, usually clear skies.
July
Shorebirds
Shorebirds begin returning from the north. Lesser and greater yellowlegs, semi-palmated sandpiper, short-billed dowitchers.
Passerines
Eastern phoebe, yellow warblers, Baltimore orioles begin staging in the marsh region. Martins and swallows begin staging.
