The reason that spring birding is so rewarding is, of course, because that is when the birds are pairing off and migrating to their breeding grounds to start the next generation.
Spring in the northern hemisphere brings the sound of male birds claiming their territories with songs and calls. It is a real sign that winter is over when the silence of the chilly mornings is replaced by a symphony of avian song.
Migrants arrive in great numbers from distant over-wintering grounds and courtship rituals are enacted everywhere – rural or urban, watching birds is an almost unavoidable pastime in spring!
In the Americas alone, there are some 350 migratory species that travel north to breed. Longer hours of daylight in the north, in which to forage for food for their young, is one of the drivers of bird migration. But, of course, long hours of daylight also make spring birding a pleasure, along with the warmer weather and the pleasure of seeing the countryside coming into bloom.
Insects coming out of hibernation, spring growth and warming seas and lakes mean plentiful food sources for birds hungry after the exertions of migration. That is why spring birding in woodland, coastal areas, wetlands and farmland becomes such a feast for the eyes.
In the southern hemisphere, at the opposite end of the year, spring in October and November brings opportunities to see the Malleefowl of Australia, for example, building their nest mounds that will incubate their eggs. It is also a good season for seabird watching as the birds perform aerial displays to attract a mate.
Spring bird watching in southern Africa has the added attraction of beautiful displays of vibrantly coloured wildflowers, contrasting nicely with the iridescent hues of a sunbird’s plumage, or a rockjumper’s distinct coloration.
Spring birdwatching the world over is the ideal tonic to lift the spirits after a long winter and enlisting the assistance of a good local guide such as the ones the tour operators on Blue Sky Wildlife can provide will ensure a birdwatching holiday to remember.
Discover: Guided Tours with Local Experts | Spring Birdwatching Tours & Day Trips
