May 11, 2024May 12, 2024 by L. L. Coble

More Migrating Birds

As waves of wet weather persistently roll through the Lower Susquehanna River Watershed, the tide of northbound migrants continues. Here are few of today’s highlights…

Eastern Kingbird — Though few in number several days ago, flycatchers are now quite common. Many of the Eastern Kingbirds we’re now seeing will stay to nest in trees bordering grasslands and pastures.

Willow Flycatcher — Willow Flycatchers nest along streams and other bodies of water where herbaceous growth and scattered shrubs are plentiful. Lacking favorable habitat, many will continue moving north in coming days.

Lincoln's Sparrow — The seldom seen Lincoln’s Sparrow likes wet thickets for layovers during its passage through the lower Susquehanna valley. They are often the last of the migratory sparrows to transit the area in May. These elusive birds nest primarily in boggy thickets far to the north of our region, mostly in Canada.

Northern Parula — Colorful warblers are still arriving. Remember to watch for them in unusual places due to stormy weather. Earlier today, we spotted this Northern Parula prowling a lakeside willow instead of spending its time among the crown foliage and vines adorning mature forest trees. Breezy conditions ahead of an afternoon shower may have prompted this bird to seek caterpillars and other grub in this protected location.

Least and Solitary Sandpipers — As May churns on, more and more shorebirds will be moving through on their way to nesting grounds in the interior of Canada. This flock of Least and Solitary Sandpipers was found on the muddy margins of a man-made pond. Flooded portions of farm fields and stormwater basins are also good places to see these migrants as they trek north.

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