Sunday, August 31, 2014

Migration


              I was driving home last night when I noticed a flock of Canada geese eating grass and sedges from the open field.  The sun was starting to set, but I could still clearly see them.  The unexpected presence of such a large number of geese was truly striking.  The flock consisted of at least twenty five strong adults.  I wondered if the flock plans to migrate next month or if they stay in this area year round.  It’s the end of summer and most birds are getting ready to migrate.  The Black chinned hummingbird that visits my feeder will leave.  The Mississippi Kite that frequently perches in the Oak tree near my parent’s house will depart too.  I like that birds are sentimental.  For example, they will return year after year to nest in a tree they like.  I like that different bird species send out scouts, because it makes them seem organized and methodical.  Recently, I learned more about the migratory routes of birds in North Texas at the Fort Worth Nature Center.   Do you have a favorite bird?  I recommend learning all you can about one particular species, then share the knowledge with as many people as you can.  If you haven’t been to the Fort Worth Nature Center, I recommend that too.