For most birders, spring and fall migration is the peak of their annual birding. During migration, warblers light up the trees with color, shorebirds dot the beaches, and birds of prey soar overhead—and with the turn of the page to summer, the focus shifts. As birds have settled into their nesting and breeding territories, birding takes on a new form. Below are some tips on how you can make the most of your summer birding.
• Start Early: The early birder gets the...bird? This advice is solid year-round, but especially in the summer months. Birds, particularly songbirds, are most active at dawn, and will be singing and calling to announce their presence and territory. Doing the bulk of your summer birding before 8 a.m. will lead to observing more species and will also allow you to beat the heat of midday.
• Appreciate, from a distance! Although this advice is also good year-round, this time of year, it’s especially important. Birds are under additional stress to protect their nest and provide for their offspring. A general best practice is to extend your arm all the way and give a thumbs up. If you can’t cover the bird with your thumb, you’re likely too close. All birds benefit from being a good distance away from humans, but certain species, including the American Oystercatcher, Piping Plover, and Least Tern, depend on us giving them distance.
• Focused Outings: In the spring, it’s easy to get caught up and spend hours in the field. In summer, a more focused approach in a specific habitat can be a solid approach. Summer is a good time to check out new birding sites, as this can provide some intel for returning to the location during migration. Check out the NYS Birding Trail to find a new to you birding location for the summer.
Any time of year is a good time to go birding—summer included.
