Wisconsin Statewide Birding Report 9.13.13Fall migration is in full swing as a series of cold fronts this week brought major flights of warblers, thrushes, and other songbirds to the state. Birders in the north found more than 20 species of warblers but noted increasing numbers of palm and yellow-rumped warblers, two harbingers of the warbler migration’s end. However, these fronts brought the first really good action to the south, so Wisconsin’s woods and wetlands are likely loaded with the birds right now. Mid-September usually features the greatest abundance and diversity of migrating songbirds here. Be sure to head out to your favorite woodlot or park to glimpse the action before these long-distance migrants head out in the weeks ahead. Some short-distance migrants such as rusty blackbirds, ruby-crowned kinglets, and Lincoln’s sparrows have also arrived, mostly in the north, while after staging an excellent migration this year, common nighthawks have largely vacated the state with good numbers holding on only in the southeast. In their wake, skywatchers can turn toward diurnal birds of prey as sharp-shinned hawks, broad-winged hawks, ospreys, and other raptors begin their migrations. Large kettles (flocks) of broad-wings often push through Wisconsin between Sept. 15 and 25. The Mississippi River bluffs and Lake Michigan shoreline often concentrate birds following cold fronts. On the water, this past week saw the first good influx of Canada geese from Canadian breeding grounds, while the birding community has reported no significant waterfowl flights yet. Expect numbers of both to build with each passing weather system. Shorebird migration is slowing down but still providing good viewing opportunities in some areas, especially late season specialties like American golden and black-bellied plovers, Sanderlings, and a few others. Parasitic jaegers have made a great showing this year. Two were recently seen at Wind Point in Racine and Wisconsin Point in Superior has hosted several individuals daily, often at close range. Other rarities reported in the state this past week include western sandpiper in Milwaukee, western grebe in La Crosse, black-necked stilts at Horicon Marsh, and American avocet and red knot in Green Bay. As always, help us track bird populations and their migration patterns by reporting your sightings to
www.ebird.org/wi. - Ryan Brady, Bureau of Wildlife Management research scientist, Ashland
