Autumn in Maine sees the migration of many birds headed south for the winter in search of more plentiful food sources. Some birds do remain, settling in for the long winter. Even more intriguing however, are the birds that head down to “vacationland” for the winter from their breeding grounds in Northern Canada, and even in the arctic circle.This time of year, you can spot these and other birds from the North, just make sure to layer up and bring binoculars!
Common redpoll: A small finch, this bird can most likely be seen in birch trees or at your bird feeder in search of seeds. They may also be under the snow in the evening, burrowed in a tunnel to keep warm!
Photo Courtesy of: Fyn Kynd
Snowy owl: These tundra owls are irregular winter visitors in Maine, sometimes remaining on their breeding grounds year-round. If you do spot one, it will likely be in a large field or on the shoreline, keeping an eye out for small mammals.
Photo Courtesy of: Chris Franklin
Buffleheads: These small ducks have large, round heads, giving them their namesake. In winter, buffleheads can be found in sheltered coves along the shoreline, disappearing frequently underwater in search of food.
Photo Courtesy of: Fyn Kynd
Snow bunting: This songbird flies down to the northern states from its breeding ground in the high arctic. They can be spotted in fields near bodies of freshwater, foraging for seeds.
Photo Courtesy of: Bill Thompson
If you would like more information about these and other Maine wintering birds, check out this blog post featured on Audubon, highlighting several great birding apps!
