Backyard Birding

Over the weekend, we drove out to the Loess Hills for the grand opening of their new lodge and the annual Hawkwatch. The Loess Hills in Western Iowa consist of a geologically unique stretch of yellow loess which follows the Missouri River from Westfield, IA to Mound City, MO. The only other place in the world where this type of soil can be found compacted in this way is along the Yellow River in China. Loess soils are important to this region’s economy because it is a very fertile soil. It is soft to the touch and spongy. Even the packed soil on the trails has a certain give to it.

It is an important region to our birds for an interesting reason: the winds which blow along the central plains are forced upward by the hills, creating strong updrafts. Thus migrating raptors are able to ride these thermals for many miles while exerting very little energy.

This region was first described during the expedition of Lewis and Clark as “bald” due to the lack of trees. It was covered by mixed grass prairie, and an occasional burr oak. Meriwether Lewis describes the view thus:

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While some species of raptors can become a pest at feeders, they are amazing birds to watch. One of the most exhilarating experiences I have had with my backyard feeding station was the day a red tailed hawk inspected our yard. Each fall, millions of these magnificent birds migrate south and head through a narrow corridor in central Veracruz, Mexico. That, I am sure, is a truly amazing sight. I have read that it is like watching a river of hawks flying overhead as they make their way to their winter homes. I am sure that these pictures do the event little justice.

While nothing quite that amazing shall be occurring here in the United States, our raptors are readying themselves for this migration. In fact, according to the Hawk Migration Association of North America, the peak period for observing the fall migration is between September 20 and October 20. Check here for an interactive map which will help you find where a viewing site may be located in your state. Participating in a count day can be very educational, and experienced birders are generally available to assist in identification and to answer questions. If you cannot make the count day, however, a trip to the area any time during the migration will likely yield a few memorable sightings.

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As many North American birds prepare to fly south for the winter, many species may be in your area for a short time that you are not normally able to see. Some may even stop at your feeders for some needed calories on this arduous flight. During migration, our birds stick to four main flyways which correspond fairly closely to major topographical features of North America: the Atlantic Flyway, the Mississippi Flyway, the Central Flyway and the Pacific Flyway.

Because the birds follow these features for the most part, you may notice some interesting things at this time of year. We used to live a bit south of the Missouri River and the geese in our area used the river as a sort of road to the Mississippi Flyway. So every fall we saw great flocks of geese heading north for the winter. They seemed confused to us, especially since we did not realize at the time they were flying to the Missouri to follow its course.

Watch your birds as the season changes. Some species will become scarcer and scarcer until you realize that you have seen the last of them until spring. Others will begin to form large flocks in preparation for migration. Last year, we had a surprise visit from a small group of blue birds which came every morning for a week before they disappeared. Before the last of your birds head south, however, you may notice your first winter visitors.

Ways to enjoy this spectacle with your family:

1. Set up feeders if you have not already.

2. Sign up for Project FeederWatch.

3. Check with your local parks and birding clubs to see what activities are being offered.

We will be looking at migration all week, so stay tuned!

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