Weather Forecasts for Migrating Songbirds

As April approaches, how is spring bird migration progressing? Dr. David Aborn shares the latest news: "While it is still early in the migration season, birds have been arriving at their breeding ranges for a couple of weeks. Numbers are picking up." 

Read Dr. David Aborn’s 2023 Weather Forecasts for Migrating Songbirds-Report #1»

Journey North Species

Baltimore and Bullock’s Orioles

Are you seeing orioles? Has the weather hampered the northern migration of orioles? Only your reports will help to answer this and many other questions. 

Barn Swallow

The northern most observations has been reported by Rich in Litchfield, IL. Where are you seeing Barn Swallows? Don't forget to submit photos. 

Common Loon

Observations of Common Loons have been submitted from Midwestern United States including Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin as well as in northern Ontario, Canada. Loons have also been reported from Georgia and South Carolina.

Sara in Flat Creek, GA: "There were more than 20 loons in the water and seagulls following them!" (03/23/2023)

Carla in Beaver Dam, WI: "Now waiting for the wood ducks!"     (03/28/2023)

Jane in Delaware, ON saw two loons. (03/28/2023)

Red-winged Blackbird

Observers as far north as Ontario and New Brunswick, Canada are observing Red-winged Blackbirds.

Heather in Waterloo, ON: "The unmistakable welcome song of a red winged blackbird, "pic-a-reee," heard repeatedly when I went out to fill a bird feeder. A few minutes later, he was at said feeder eating hulled sunflower chips. I am blessed with a modest wetland as part of my borrowed scenery, so I anticipate him and his family for the summer." (03/16/2023)

Blakae in Saint Martins Parish, NB: "Large flock of all male red wing blackbirds mixed with grackles at bird feeder." (03/28/2023)

Keep Reporting and Include Photos

Are you noticing your first Baltimore and Bullock’s Oriole, Barn Swallow, Common Loon, or Red-winged Blackbird of the season? Remember to report your observations. And if you observe other bird species, please report under the category All Other Signs of Spring. If possible, include photos (one photo per report). Photos help verify reports and we enjoy sharing them with our Journey North community!