Ecologist’s Corner: Midnight Migration

Did you know that most migratory birds travel hundreds—even thousands—of miles under the cover of darkness? Yes—at night! And autumn is one of the busiest migration seasons of the year, as millions of birds journey south in search of warmer winter habitats.

From August 1 through November 15, you can visit Cornell’s Birdast.org to watch this incredible migration unfold in real time, including nightly estimates of the birds passing through Los Angeles County. Starting August 1st, nightly bird migration patterns overhead are monitored and are posted each day: https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-CA-037)!

The Puente Hills Preserve lies along the Pacific Flyway, one of North America’s four major migratory routes making it an important stopover where migrating birds can rest and refuel before continuing their remarkable journeys. Because many species migrate at night, bright lights can attract and disorient them, making dark, open spaces like the Preserve especially important for safe passage. Be sure to keep an eye and an ear out this fall, as you may spot or hear some of these seasonal travelers during your visit to the Preserve!