Humans are not the only ones reacting to the recent chilly, windy weather. “While we’re breaking out the sweatshirts and jackets, some of our migrating songbirds are stopping over on their way south,” explained Art Weber, Metroparks Toledo nature photographer.
In recent days, white-crowned sparrows, above, song sparrows, juncos, kinglets, and some warblers have been reported. Fall songbird migration is generally less predictable and less organized than spring. During spring migration, birds are on a breeding imperative, pushing to get to northern nesting grounds. They are driven to stake out territory and get on with the business of raising their young.
Some species look the same as they did in spring. Others– warblers, for example–have a different, typically duller appearance. Among the flocks are the young of the year making their first trip to southern wintering grounds.
“If you plan on feeding the birds this winter now is a good time to get the feeders going,” Mr. Weber said, adding, “You’ll attract some of these migrants as well as establish your feeders as a source for our winter residents. Black sunflower seeds are a wonderful offering as it is attractive to many species.”
Trails at area parks are particularly colorful at this time of year and he urges park guests to visit one of the windows on wildlife to observe birds and other wildlife feeding, as well as to get ideas on establishing or expanding a backyard wildlife feeding station.
This white-crowned sparrow, one of the most handsome of native sparrows, was photographed by Mr. Weber.
