Migration in Full Swing

Spring migration is now widespread throughout North America. Many different birds are on the move. What species are you noticing? Report your observations to Journey North.

Red-breasted Grosbeak — Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Photo: Darlene in Leamington, ON; 05/01/2022)

Weather Forecasts for Migrating Songbirds

May is here and migratory activity is high throughout North America. What species is Dr. Aborn observing? And how is weather impacting migration?

“It has been another active week … Here in Tennessee, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks have been showing up at peoples’ feeders in droves, and Blackpoll Warblers, Tennessee Warblers, Cape May Warblers, and Magnolia Warblers have also been plentiful … What does the coming week look like? Well, it looks like more of the same. There is a storm system moving across the southern US that may bring another fallout along the Gulf Coast … Migration is waning in places but approaching its peak in others. Wherever you are, there are still many birds to see!”

Chuck Henrikson’s Birding Report

What new arrivals is Chuck observing? Find out in his latest birding report from Journey North’s home base, the UW–Madison Arboretum.

“Warblers are still arriving. The number of different species of warblers has risen from 20 species to about 25 species … Remember we should be able to see about 30 species of warblers in the Arboretum or in Dane County … Last Wednesday I did see one of my favorite warblers down at Big Spring. It was a Prothonotary Warbler.”

Journey North Species

Baltimore and Bullock’s Oriole

Reports of Baltimore Orioles are coming in at a blistering pace. Over 450 reports have already been submitted since May 1.

Pam in Seaforth, MN: “Just saw our first [Baltimore] Oriole!!” (05/05/2022)

Farther west, Bullock’s Oriole sightings are picking up in Utah and Colorado.

Carla in Ivins, UT: “We have had several male and female Hooded Orioles this year but this is the first Bullock’s. I understand they are usually seen about 10 miles from here.” (05/05/2022)

Barn Swallow

In British Columbia, Barn Swallows are returning to nesting sites.

Tim in Nanoose Bay, BC: “First Barn Swallow pair sighted back in their nest.” (04/27/2022)

Common Loon

In Vermont, one Journey North volunteer shared a nice example of the connection between ice-out dates and loon arrivals.

Abigail in Sunderland, VT “4/10 the lake was completely frozen; 4/22 the lake was completely open/melted; and 4/29 I spotted the first loon on Branch Pond.” (04/29/2022)

Red-Winged Blackbird

Red-winged Blackbirds are a widespread species and are still progressing to the northern reaches of their breeding range.

N in Saskatoon, SK: “Three [Red-winged Blackbird] males arrived this morning.” (04/29/2022)

Lead Poisoning and the Importance of Fishing Lead Free

Spring is here. For many, the call of the Common Loon can now be heard throughout the “north country”. Whether in the US or Canada, the call of the loon signifies lake time, a time to connect to these special water places. If you enjoy fishing, you are probably grabbing your gear and cleaning out your boat. But STOP! Take a moment to consider this important message. Please “get the lead out” from fishing tackle before heading to your favorite fishing spot.

Billy Helprin, Director of Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary, Mt. Desert Island, Maine, reminds us why this message is so important for Common Loons.

Read Billy Helprin’s article: Lead Poisoning and the Importance of Fishing Lead Free»