Mary Allen
Introduction: Late Summer Cardinal Migration
As summer draws to a close, many bird species embark on their annual migration to warmer climates. One such bird is the northern cardinal, a familiar sight in backyards across much of North America. While some cardinals may remain in their breeding grounds year-round, many others migrate south for the winter. Late summer is the time when this migration begins in earnest, with flocks of cardinals taking to the skies in search of milder temperatures and abundant food.
Why Do Cardinals Migrate?
Like many migratory birds, cardinals undertake their journey in order to avoid harsh winter conditions and to take advantage of more favorable food sources. In particular, cardinals tend to migrate to areas where there are abundant supplies of seeds, fruits, and insects. By heading south for the winter, they are able to avoid the scarcity of such resources that can occur in their breeding grounds during the colder months. Additionally, migrating allows cardinals to escape the extreme cold and snow that can make survival difficult in the northern parts of their range.
The Timing of Cardinal Migration
The timing of cardinal migration can vary depending on a number of factors, including weather conditions and food availability. Typically, however, cardinals begin to move southward in late summer or early fall, with most birds having departed their breeding grounds by November. Some birds may start their journey as early as July or August, while others may wait until later in the fall to begin their migration.
Cardinal Migration Routes
Cardinals have several migration routes that they may follow, depending on their breeding location. Birds breeding in the eastern parts of North America may head south along the Atlantic coast, while those in the central and western parts of the continent may take a more inland route. Some cardinals also migrate across the Gulf of Mexico, making an impressive non-stop flight of up to 600 miles.
How Far Do Cardinals Travel?
The distance that cardinals travel during migration can vary widely depending on their breeding location and migration route. Some birds may only travel a few hundred miles, while others may undertake journeys of over 1,000 miles. Cardinals that migrate across the Gulf of Mexico may travel up to 1,500 miles in a single non-stop flight.
What Affects Cardinal Migration?
There are a variety of factors that can impact cardinal migration, including weather conditions, food availability, and habitat loss. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes or droughts, can disrupt migration patterns and cause significant mortality among migratory birds. Changes in land use and habitat loss can also affect migratory species by reducing the availability of suitable breeding and wintering grounds.
Birding for Cardinals in Migration
Late summer and early fall can be an excellent time to observe migrating cardinals, as flocks of birds make their way southward. Birders can look for cardinals in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, fields, and suburban areas. In particular, areas with abundant food sources, such as fruit trees, can be excellent places to observe migrating birds.
Conservation Efforts for Migratory Cardinals
Protecting migratory birds like the northern cardinal requires a coordinated effort between governments, conservation organizations, and individuals. Efforts to conserve migratory birds may include habitat restoration, reducing the impact of human activities on bird populations, and monitoring and mitigating threats such as pesticide use or climate change.
The Future of Cardinal Migration
The future of cardinal migration is uncertain, as changing environmental conditions and human activities may impact the ability of these birds to undertake their annual journey. However, continued conservation efforts and a commitment to protecting migratory species can help to ensure that cardinals and other birds continue to thrive in the years to come.
How to Help Cardinals During Migration
Individuals can help to support migrating cardinals by providing food sources such as birdfeeders and fruit trees, reducing the use of pesticides and other chemicals that can harm birds, and supporting conservation organizations that work to protect migratory bird populations.
Conclusion: Appreciating Cardinal Migration
Late summer and early fall are a time of transition for many bird species, including the northern cardinal. By understanding the factors that drive cardinal migration and taking steps to support these birds, we can appreciate the incredible journeys that they undertake each year and work to ensure that they continue to thrive in the wild.
References and Further Reading
- National Audubon Society. (2021). Northern Cardinal. Retrieved from https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/northern-cardinal
- The Cornell Lab of Ornithology. (2021). Northern Cardinal. Retrieved from https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Cardinal/overview
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (2021). Migratory Birds. Retrieved from https://www.fws.gov/birds/management/migratory-bird-management/migratory-birds.php