Autumn
Signals Bird Migration
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.
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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 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.
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