Autumn bird migrations in Virginia: What, when, & where to watch
The Virginia birdwatcher’s guide to the most notable birds to look out for during autumn migrations, plus the best times and places to spot them.
As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in Virginia, an extraordinary natural spectacle unfolds overhead. Thousands of birds embark on their annual migrations, traveling across the commonwealth as they head to warmer climates for the winter.
This migration season offers a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike to witness a variety of species in their transient glory. Here’s a guide to some of the most notable birds to look out for and the best times and places to spot them.
Warblers
Species to watch: Black-throated Blue Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Cape May Warbler
When to see them: Late September to early November
Where to spot them: Shenandoah National Park, Appalachian Trail
According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, warblers are small, colorful songbirds that are often a favorite among bird watchers. During autumn, species such as the Black-throated Blue Warbler and the Cape May Warbler make their way through Virginia’s forests. Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail are prime locations to catch a glimpse of these vibrant birds as they forage for insects and berries.
Hawks and Falcons
Species to watch: Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle
When to see them: September to mid-November
Where to spot them: Rockfish Gap, Kiptopeke State Park
Raptors like hawks and falcons can be seen riding the thermals as they migrate southward. Rockfish Gap along the Blue Ridge Parkway, as noted by The Hawk Migration Association of North America, and Kiptopeke State Park on the Eastern Shore, as noted by the Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory, are renowned hawk-watching spots. Here, you can witness the impressive sight of these birds soaring high in the sky, often in large groups known as “kettles.”
Waterfowl
Species to watch: Canvasback, Northern Pintail, Common Loon
When to see them: Late September to mid-December
Where to spot them: Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
As temperatures drop, waterfowl species including the Canvasback and the Northern Pintail head to Virginia’s waterways. According to the National Audubon Society, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge are excellent places to observe these birds. Look for them in wetlands, ponds, and marshes where they stop to rest and feed during their long journey.
Sparrows and Finches
Species to watch: Dickcissel, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
When to see them: Fall
Where to spot them: Great Dismal Swamp, Belle Isle State Park
Small but mighty, sparrows and finches bring a burst of activity to Virginia’s landscapes during autumn. The Great Dismal Swamp, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, is a key area where you can see species like Lincoln’s Sparrow and the Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Belle Isle State Park also falls within the migration map from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. These birds often travel in flocks, making them easier to spot as they flit through bushes and low trees.
Thrushes
Species to watch: Gray-cheeked Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, Bicknell’s Thrush
When to see them: Fall
Where to spot them: Shenandoah National Park, Grayson Highlands State Park
Thrushes are known for their melodic songs and reclusive nature. During migration, species such as the Gray-cheeked Thrush and the Swainson’s Thrush can be found in Virginia’s dense forests. Shenandoah National Park, according to the National Audubon Society, and the Grayson Highlands State Park, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, provide ideal habitats for these birds, offering ample opportunities for birdwatchers to enjoy their subtle beauty.
Tips for bird watching in Virginia
According to the National Park Service, bird watching can be an incredibly rewarding activity for both beginners and experienced birders. Here are five tips it offers to enhance your bird-watching experience:
- Dress in earth tones: Wearing neutral colors helps you blend into the environment, making birds less likely to notice you.
- Practice patience: Bird watching requires time and patience, so be prepared to wait quietly for birds to appear.
- Minimize noise: Keeping quiet helps prevent scaring birds away, increasing your chances of observing them.
- Use quality binoculars: A good pair of binoculars enhances your ability to spot and identify birds from a distance.
- Learn bird calls: Familiarizing yourself with bird sounds can help you locate and identify species that are hidden from view.
Virginia’s autumn bird migrations offer a captivating glimpse into the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors, this migration season provides a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and witness the incredible journeys of these avian travelers.
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