Spring Birding for Beginners

Throughout millenia, birds have followed flight paths set out by their ancestors in the days when their ancestors sprouted feathers and grew apart from the dinosaurs. There are several major migratory routes within the United States. One of the largest and most important is the Atlantic Flyway which criss-crosses such major cities as New York City.

This is one of 4 major routes that cross the Continental United States, the others being from East to West: the Mississippi, Central and Pacific Flyways. Each of these routes features it's own specific species that have taken these well-worn paths since the dawn of creation.

The primary birds of this season are migratory ducks, hawks and warblers. During the Spring, all of these will be returning from colder climes in the South to prime feeding grounds further North. This migratory pattern serves the birds purposes by increasing the amount of available feeding and breeding ground.

Within the New York City area, the cliffs along the palisades on the New Jersey side is a prime viewing area for migrating hawks. Here, strong thermals are available to help the birds on their arduous journeys. Lots of fish for predators like Osprey keep them happy as well.

Jamaica Bay Wildlife refuge close by John F. Kennedy airport is excellent for geese, ducks and seabirds. Within this several-hundred acre site criss-crossed with paths are multiple environments including the bay, upland woods, ponds and marsh.

Because of the variety of habitats within a circumscribed area, the so-called edge effect kicks in. The edge effect means that when multiple habitats are located within close proximity, the number of species explodes. This is also prime habitat for reptiles and amphibians.

Warblers are returning from their annual sojourns in South America and they fly through on a predictable weekly schedule which can be obtained through veteran birders in your area. The warblers are small, colorful, insect-eating birds with small beaks adapted to grab insects located in our near trees or vegetation.

One tip-off that you are looking at a warbler is that they will appear to dive right at a tree or bush and then dart backward. Some are ground feeders,such as Black-throated Blue Warblers or Ovenbirds which may be mistaken at first glance for thrushes.

The warblers are some of the most rewarding birds to spot and many species are highly endangered. Being able to identify all of the local species separates the experienced birder from the tyro.

In the New York area, warblers are best seen in Prospect Park, Central Park and in all of the local botanical gardens. In your area, look for brush or trees near water, they will have the most birds of all kind, but especially warblers. Familiarize yourself with the calls of common birds such as the "Witchety, Wichety" of a Common Yellowthroat or the "Sweet, Sweet" of a Yellow Warbler.

Because these birds are fond of brambles and thickets, you best bet will be to listen for the voices before attempting to spot them.

Some like to fly very high in the tops of trees. If you want to spot a Scarlet Tanager, bring binoculars and be prepared to sprain your neck.

Suppose you are visually challenged, aging or just not very fit. For you, the best investment will be a copy of a guide to your local birds such as Peterson's Guide to the Birds of North America, All the Birds or any other respected handbook.

You will study this carefully until you know what your target likes to eat. Find a bench near the appropriate stand of berries, evergreens or flowers and the birds will come to you, especially if there is also water nearby.

If you are looking for owls, find a stand of evergreens. Some owls such as Saw Whets, are not much bigger than Sparrows. If you want to spot these, or their enormous cousins, the Great Horned Owls, or any of their kin, white stains on the bark of the evergreens will be your tip-off. You may also notice pellets containing bones or fur of their prey near the trees. This is your confirmation. These birds of prey will stay in the same areas all their lives. Because they require a lot of territory, you may only find one or two pairs of these within a given area.

If you are very limited, you may want to make the birds come to you. Be sure to plant shrubs such as Yews and Hollies where small songbirds may hide from their deadly hawk enemies. Provide a variety of feeders with different types of food to suit the cultivated palates of your guests and add a small birdbath or other source of water for best results. You may want to discuss your needs with an experienced retailer to avoid pesky squirrels or other rodents who would love to enjoy your bounty.

Enjoy Spring and your feathered friends. Good luck and lots of success with your birding.

Sources:
http://www.birdnature.com/flyways.html