Numbers and varieties of northbound Neotropical songbirds and shorebirds are presently reaching their peak in the Lower Susquehanna River Watershed. Upon arrival, those species that breed locally will begin protecting a home range without delay. These Lesser Yellowlegs on the other hand will ultimately defend nesting sites in boreal forests far to our north, but they can still become spectacularly aggressive toward one another while passing through. During coming weeks, expect birds of reproductive age to demonstrate a similar demeanor, especially the males. You won’t want to miss the handsome plumage, the songs, and the territorial behaviors of migratory birds in May. It’s a big part of what makes them so worthy of our best efforts to appreciate and protect them.
