Most birds have evolved to migrate seasonally to areas that are less likely to jeopardize survival. In North America, this means that many species fly south toward the equator during the colder months when plants and insects go dormant, leaving the birds with little food or protection. More than 380 species of birds migrate through Michigan alone each fall, according to MI Birds. We see such diversity during peak migration season because Michigan is an intersection of the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways. This makes autumn a popular time for bird-watching as many people have an opportunity to observe species that are non-native to the Great Lakes region.
Historically, Michigan’s peak migration season is between the months of September and October. There are several nocturnal species that migrate through the state as well, including the Magnolia Warbler, Swainson’s Thrush, and Spotted Sandpiper. As of September 3rd, nearly 62.5 million birds have crossed Michigan, with 127,900 currently in-flight. You can visit BirdCast to get live updates on which species are migrating and when to watch out for them.
While these birds are traveling thousands of miles for a better chance of survival through the winter, they can often encounter fatal hazards along the way. Every year, about one billion birds collide with windows. Because they do not recognize glass the same way humans do, they are often attracted to the reflection of natural landscape or interior lighting. Lighting at night can cause disorientation and confusion during flight, often causing birds to collide with one another. So, what are some ways that we can help reduce these life-threatening collisions? Below, we’ve compiled some for you.
Actions to prevent bird fatalities
- Turn Off Lights; turn off your outside lights and draw curtains or blinds to block inside lights between August 15-November 30 from 11 PM to 6 AM
- Install Window Decals or Hang Vertical Cords on Problem Windows; Add decals or hanging cords to prevent bird collisions with the windows where you’ve observed collisions
- Bird Feeder Placement; purchase a feeder that adheres to your window, or place one farther than 10 yards from your window to avoid collisions with your windows.
You can find more info on bird collision prevention.
Sources
- Audubon Great Lakes
- US FWS: Migratory Bird Flyways
- US FWS: Preventing Bird Collisions with Buildings and Glass
- Cornell Lab: BirdCast
- Cornell Lab: BirdCast Lights Out
- Birds Connect Seattle
Tags: Sustainability