Weather affects bird migration

Geese migrate despite the odds

Fall migration peaks in October but continues into December for many species, especially those short-distance flyers (sparrows and blackbirds for instance). During peak migration, birds are on the move every day, particularly as days become shorter. 

The volume of migrating birds is greatly affected by local and regional weather patterns. In addition to precipitation, wind direction plays a major role. Wind at a bird's back makes flying much easier than flying into a wind. When weather systems create favorable winds, birds move en masse.

As strong cold fronts pass through, there is a surge in flights of migrating birds. Behind a typical autumn cold front, the air is dry and cool, and the wind direction is generally from the north and west. Migration is most intense on the day after the passage of a front.

By watching the weather, you can increase your chances of encountering migrants. You may also see an increase in birds at your feeders or water sources.