Bird photography is about more than taking pictures of flying creatures. It is about the connection between photographers and their feathered friends. But this connection can not be formed if photographers don’t reach the right place at the right time. Due to environmental changes, these winged creatures migrate from one place to another. To capture them and make the most of their bird photography tour, photographers must understand the pattern and be where they are. Let us explore major migrations, birds’ behavior, and how professionals can maximize these natural opportunities to make the best and unique portfolio. 

There are three major bird migrations in the United States:

1. The Great Spring Migration

This massive movement occurs yearly as billions of birds travel north from their wintering grounds in Central and South America to their breeding grounds in North America. It begins in the early spring and lasts through summer. Some iconic winged creatures in this seasonal movement include the ruby-throated hummingbird, the Baltimore oriole, and the American redstart.

2. The Fall Migration

This migratory movement mirrors the spring ones, as billions of birds travel south from their breeding grounds to their wintering grounds. Fall migration typically begins in late summer and continues through autumn. Some of the most common birds that migrate south in the fall include the monarch butterfly, the sandhill crane, and the snow goose.

3. The Pacific Flyway Migration

This seasonal movement follows the Pacific coast from Alaska to South America. Many seabirds and waterfowl participate in this migration, including the bald eagle, the white-tailed eagle, and the sooty shearwater.

Bird Behavior During Migration

Migrating feathered friends exhibit fascinating behaviors to ensure survival during their long journeys. They often travel in flocks, which provides safety and helps them navigate efficiently. Some birds orient themselves in landmarks like mountains, rivers, or coastlines. Others rely on celestial cues like the sun, moon, and stars.

Birds to Spot in Major Migration Locations

Texas

The Lone Star State is a prime location for birdwatching during migration. Look for the whooping crane, a critically endangered species that migrates between Texas and Canada. Other notable birds include the American white pelican, the golden eagle, and the red-tailed hawk.

Atlantic Coast

The Atlantic Coast is a central migration corridor for many bird species. Look for the osprey, the bald eagle, and the American peregrine falcon. Coastal areas like Cape May, New Jersey, and Assateague Island, Maryland, are excellent spots for birdwatching.

California

California offers diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of migrating birds. The Pacific Flyway brings many seabirds and waterfowl to the state, including the bald eagle, the white-tailed eagle, and the sooty shearwater. Inland areas like the Central Valley and the Sierra Nevada Mountains also provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Washington

Washington state is another popular destination for birdwatchers. The Skagit Valley is known for its stunning spring migration of bald eagles. Other notable winged creatures include the sandhill crane, the snow goose, and the American white pelican.

How to Make an Interesting Portfolio

• Predicting Behavior: Knowing a bird’s typical feeding habits, nesting patterns, and flight paths can help you anticipate where and when to find them. For instance, if you know that a particular species prefers to hunt for insects in the early morning, you can be there to capture them in action.
• Choosing the Right Location: Understanding bird behavior can help you select the most suitable locations for photography. If you know that a particular species prefers dense forests, you can focus your search on wooded areas. Similarly, if a bird is known to frequent water bodies, you can set up your equipment near lakes or rivers.
• Anticipating Poses: By observing a bird’s behavior, you can predict its potential poses and movements. This knowledge allows you to position yourself in advance and capture unique and dynamic shots.
• Capturing Natural Moments: Understanding bird behavior can help you capture natural and candid moments. For example, if you know that a bird is particularly territorial, you can position yourself to capture its interactions with other birds or its surroundings.
• Creating a Story: A strong understanding of bird behavior can help you create a narrative through your photographs. You can create a more compelling and engaging portfolio by capturing a series of images that tell a story about a bird’s life or migration.

Additional Tips:

• Learn Bird Calls: Familiarizing with bird calls can help you locate and identify different species.
• Be Patient: Bird photography requires patience. Be prepared to wait for the perfect moment to capture your shot.
• Respect Wildlife: Always prioritize the well-being of the birds. Avoid disturbing their natural habitat or behavior.

Conclusion

By understanding bird behavior, you can create unique and captivating photographs that showcase your talent and passion for avian photography. Patience, observation, and a deep appreciation for the natural world are crucial to success.