As winter approaches, many people are noticing new birds in their backyard. These birds are migrating to different parts of the world in search of food or warmer temperatures. The peak of fall migration is typically in September and October, but you may be noticing new birds now as winter approaches.

The second Saturday in October is considered Migratory Bird Day. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to bird migration!

What is bird migration and why do birds migrate? 

Every year, billions of birds undertake an incredible journey as they migrate to their breeding grounds. 

Migration is a strenuous undertaking, and many birds never make it to their destination. So why do they do it? 

The most important factor is the changing of the seasons. In the winter, food becomes scarce, and birds must migrate to find a suitable environment. 

Another factor is the desire to breed. By migrating to different areas, birds can avoid competition for mates and ensure that their offspring will have the best chance of survival. 

Finally, some birds migrate to take advantage of different weather conditions. For example, by migrating to a warmer climate, they can escape the cold winters of their homeland. Whatever the reason, bird migration is an incredible phenomenon and one that never fails to amaze us.

How do birds migrate and what are some of the challenges they face? 

Most birds rely on cues from the environment to help them navigate. For example, they use the position of the sun to orient themselves and the Earth's magnetic field to help them stay on course. 

Some birds even have a built-in compass! 

But while these cues can be helpful, they can also be unreliable. Weather conditions can change rapidly, making it difficult for birds to find food or shelter. And as the climate continues to warm, many migration routes are becoming increasingly crowded, putting even more pressure on these already exhausted travelers.

Despite these challenges, birds continue to migrate each year in search of food and mates. So the next time you see a bird flying overhead, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey it’s making.

What types of birds can be found during the fall migration season? 

The fall migration season is a great time to spot some of the world's most interesting birds. 

From tiny warblers to massive cranes, thousands of different species make the journey south each year. 

One of the best places to see migrating birds is at a nature reserve or bird sanctuary. These protected areas provide a haven for birds as they rest and refuel for the next leg of their journey. Some of the most popular migrating birds include:

-The American Goldfinch, can be found in open woodlands and meadows across North America.

-The Bald Eagle, can be seen along coastlines and rivers in the United States and Canada.

-The Blackpoll Warbler, is a small songbird that breeds in northern forests and winters in Central and South America.

-The Blue-footed Booby, is a seabird that breeds on tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean.

-The Eurasian Crane, is one of the largest crane species in the world, which breeds in Europe and Asia and winters in Africa and southern Asia.

With so many different types of birds to see, the fall migration season is a great time for birdwatching!

How can you tell if a bird is migrating through your area? 

Migration is one of the most fascinating aspects of a bird's life cycle. 

While some migratory birds follow relatively simple routes, others undertake epic journeys of thousands of miles. 

So how can you tell if a bird is migrating through your area? 

One clue is the time of year. Many birds migrate in the spring and fall, so if you see a bird that is usually not present at that time of year, it's a good bet that it's migrating. 

Another clue is behavior. 

Migrating birds often travel in large flocks, and they may make sudden changes in direction as they follow weather patterns or search for food. 

If you see a flock of birds behaving oddly, it's worth taking a closer look to see if they're migrants. 

Finally, keep an eye out for unusual species. If you live in an urban area, you're unlikely to see migratory birds regularly. But if you suddenly spot a bird that looks out of place, there's a good chance it's just passing through on its way to somewhere else.

What can you do to help migrating birds in your backyard or local park?

Every year, millions of birds migrate long distances to find food and suitable breeding grounds. 

The journey is strenuous, and many birds don't survive the journey. 

However, there are things that we can do to help them. 

By providing a clean source of water, we can help them to stay hydrated. 

By planting native trees and shrubs, we can provide them with food and shelter. And by avoiding the use of pesticides, we can create a haven for them to rest and refuel. 

Pick up your wild bird seed at Martin's Feed Mill and give migrating birds in your garden some extra love! >>> www.martinsfeedmill.com

By taking these simple steps, we can give migrating birds a much-needed boost and help them to thrive. Do you have a question relating to animal nutrition? Send us an email at martinsfeed@gmail.com and we may feature your question in a future blog post!