Wisconsin Statewide Birding Report 5.07.09
Migration is in full swing as many of the birds that winter in the tropics are now returning statewide. Birders can expect to see warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles, grosbeaks, buntings and other forest birds in their local migration hotspots. Forested areas with shrubs near water are especially good this time of year. In addition, woodlots with oaks tend to attract warblers. Wetland birds and grassland birds have mostly returned. The first bobolinks are being reported this week. Wetlands with exposed mudflats are good places to see returning shorebirds in the next couple of weeks. Rare birds being reported around the state now include a few Harris' sparrows, white-eyed vireos, summer tanagers and black-necked stilts. If not already in place, now is the time to put out nectar and fruit for the returning orioles and hummingbirds. This is also a good time to consider improving your backyard habitat through native shrub/tree or wildflower plantings. There are many good sources of information about which plants attract the most birds.
