Autumn Signals Bird Migration

Autumn Signals Bird Migration

Written by Sky Taylor

It's here!  Autumn is one of the premier times of year for bird viewing. Catch a few great ideas of where and how to spot some of our fowl feathered friends by following some of the tips and ideas below.

Where to Spot Birds

Birds love water and you're just about guaranteed to spot fowl anywhere near a body of water.  Some of the best areas to spot birds include: wetlands, lakes, streams, rivers, ponds, water treatment plants, fish hatchery ponds, city parks, state parks & recreation areas, national wildlife refuges, and your own backyard.

Hang a few bird bells and toss out some seed into your backyard.  Some birds are fruit eaters, so offer a variety of goodies.  Pine cones smeared with peanut butter are easy to make, and are a nutritious bird treat.  As time goes by, you'll see a variety of birds visit.  Water should also be placed about, as it is as important to the bird's survival as food.

You'll receive more visitors if you provide some brush that the birds can hide in.  This adds a feeling of protection for the birds from potential predators (usually kitty cats and dogs in the city).

During the next few weeks, keep your eyes peeled towards the sky whenever you hear a faint honking sound.  That familiar v-formation is generally your best migration indicator that the birds are coming!

Check your city park often, especially if it contains a body of water.  During migration season, you'll discover so many different species of birds that aren't native to your area, especially if you live in the furthermost southern regions of the country.

How to Spot Birds

Set out very early in the morning, before sunrise.  The best areas for spotting include those that have bird blinds - a partition of sorts where you can 'hide' from the birds.  Scatter a bit of seed and fruit about the viewing area before you settle in behind the blind.

You'll have to remain extremely quite.  Any sudden sounds or movements could scatter the birds. Exercise patience, and you will be rewarded!  Enjoy the beautiful sunrise while you wait.

Dressing for the Occasion

Autumn tends to be very unpredictable, so be sure and don warm layers of clothing.  You'll want to wear some water-proofed shoes or boots that have non-skid soles.  If you plan to enter a wooded or grassy area, wear boots.  If you are exploring the wetlands, a pair of rubber boots would be a wise investment.

The sun can be especially bright during Autumn, so don't forget those sunshades, and the sunscreen to block out harmful rays.

Other items you might want to include are a hat, gloves and a water-proof cushion to sit on.

Your Birding Gear

A few simple pieces of gear will add some magic to your journey without weighing you down.  A canteen is a must; dehydration can occur in the coldest of months.  A pair of good binoculars is another basic essential for bird watching.  

Other items to consider taking include a field guide that you can use to identify the birds, a pen and pad to record your spottings (or a journal), some goodies to munch on, some goodies to share with the birds, a compass, a watch, and a camera.

West Nile Virus Alerts & Birds

You won't get the West Nile Virus from viewing birds, or even from handling an infected bird (but be sure and take precautions by wearing protective gloves).  Much is still being learned about the virus, so it's best to exercise caution.

We do know that West Nile Virus has devastated a good deal of our bird population.  So try to get outdoors and catch magic soon, because it just could go away.

Related Content, More Free Love Stories

Complete Table of Contents of Love Stories

Site Map | About the Author

Trinity Moon | Copyright, Disclaimers