Summer Vacation Is for the Birds

A Blackburnian warbler

Fall migration season is longer than spring. Because the birds are done breeding, they're in less of a hurry. But Purbita Saha, an editor with Audubon, says climate change — "with the days being warmer later in the year and the plants still being quite lush" — makes things even more unpredictable. Yet 10 species of warblers were recently spotted in Central Park, evidence that some of them are making the long trek south.  

Warblers can be a gateway drug for birders. "It's a great group of birds not just to look at, but to test out your birding skills on," said Saha. Birders who keep a close eye on Twitter can reap the rewards. Several species have distinct calls, like the prairie warbler, which Saha says has great vocals.

"They just have this weird ascending whistle," Saha said. "I'm not great at birding by ear, but when I hear a prairie warbler, I know it's a prairie warbler."  

Fall migration for most bird species usually wraps up in November.