Running late...

Based on average arrival dates, the earliest short-distance passerine migrants, Tree Swallow, Fox Sparrow, Eastern Phoebe, and Field Sparrow are being reported up to two weeks late this season. Waterfowl and raptors are pretty much on schedule. We are still looking for a period of seasonably warm weather, and southerly wind flow, to bring a good wave of birds northward. Perhaps that may begin to happen early next week.

Tree Swallow back at Five Rivers

Empty Field Sparrow habitat, Five Rivers

What's Next:

April 5th- 11th

This is the prime week to look for Red-throated Loons on rivers, large lakes and reservoirs. 

Two Swallow species, Northern Rough-winged and Barn, will start to arrive in small numbers.

Woodland arrivals this week may include Hermit Thrush, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Louisiana Waterthrush, and a fresh supply of Winter Wren.

Fields, edges and scrub might welcome Palm Warbler, Eastern Towhee, and Brown Thrashers. Migrant Savannah Sparrows and Chipping Sparrows should show up at the end of the period.

Virginia Rail will sound off in cattail marshes around this time, especially early morning and late afternoon. Greater Yellowlegs may be seen in proper shorebird habitat.

TW