Spring Migration 2025

SPRING MIGRATION 2025

Spring migrants were scarce and unpredictable throughout the local area this year. The cause, most likely, was sustained unfavorable wind patterns, especially in early to mid-May, that redirected migrating flocks to the Ohio Valley flyway. However, our expected breeders did manage to turn up, if sometimes a bit later than usual. For a third year, Virginia Rails have returned to the marsh, drawn by the resurgence of native cattails. Purple Martins and Yellow Warblers continue in good numbers, along with Willow Flycatchers, Cedar Waxwings, and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Orioles, Wood Thrushes, and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are making their presence known throughout the Refuge, while Scarlet Tanagers are singing in the canopy deeper into the Institute Woods. More elusive possible nesters include Veery, American Redstart, and Black-and-white Warbler. The first spotted young Eastern Bluebirds had already fledged by

mid-May.