Fall migration is underway. Shorebirds down from Arctic breeding grounds are topping up their energy tanks along mudflats, beaches and lagoons for the long trip to the tropics. Some swallows have already departed while others are gathering on power lines and feeding on flying insects over open water. Then there are the songbirds, notably warblers, vireos, flycatchers and thrushes. They work the leaves and branches for insects as they casually move south. You’ll notice that many warblers are hard to identify now, males having changed their appearance to look more like females and juveniles for the winter.

The thing about fall migration is that it is more relaxed. The weather is good and food is still abundant so birds take their time, unlike the hustle of spring when they are hurrying to breeding grounds. This pattern will continue through September but by October, many of these birds will be gone.

Happy Birding!

By Brian Morin

Publisher of Ontario Birding News