When do migratory birds return in spring?

As winter fades, one of the best signs that spring is on the way is the return of migratory birds. Even before the leaves come back, the air fills with new sounds. One morning, the yard is quiet, and the next, a robin is hopping across the lawn or a red-winged blackbird is calling from a nearby marsh.

Birdwatchers keep an eye out for these early arrivals, knowing that each species follows its own pattern. Some birds return while snow is still on the ground, while others wait until insects are plentiful. Tracking these changes makes the season feel more alive.

I always know spring is getting close when I hear the first phoebe calling. It happens every year, usually on a chilly morning when the trees are still bare. That scratchy “fee-bee” song carries through the air, and just like that, the quiet of winter starts to fade. The same spots that felt empty a few weeks earlier are suddenly full of life again.

Table of Contents

• Factors That Influence Migration Timing

• Early Arrivals: The First Signs of Spring

• Mid-Season Migrants: The Main Wave

• Late Arrivals: Warm Weather Specialists

• How to Track Migration in Real Time

• Making the Backyard Ready for Returning Birds

Factors That Influence Migration Timing

Birds do not follow a calendar, but their return in spring is guided by a few key factors. Each species responds to different cues, which means migration does not happen all at once.

Daylight Length: Longer days signal to birds that it is time to move north. As the sun sets later and the mornings grow brighter, their internal clocks tell them that breeding season is approaching.

Temperature: Warmer weather plays a role, but birds do not always wait for perfect conditions. Some arrive while snow is still on the ground, while others time their return to when nighttime temperatures stay above freezing.

Food Supply: The availability of insects, seeds, and fresh vegetation determines how soon birds return. Species that rely on insects, like warblers and swallows, arrive later than those that can eat seeds or fruit.

Weather Patterns: Strong winds, storms, and sudden cold snaps can delay migration. Birds take advantage of favorable tailwinds to conserve energy and avoid long flights in bad conditions.

These factors combine to create a migration pattern that is different every year. Some years, birds arrive earlier than expected, while other times, they are delayed by lingering cold.

Early Arrivals: The First Signs of Spring

Some birds waste no time returning north, showing up before winter fully loosens its grip. These early arrivals are often the first signs that the seasons are changing.

American Robins – Many people think of robins as the first sign of spring, but some stay through winter in certain areas. When larger flocks start appearing on lawns and calling at dawn, it usually means migration is underway.

Red-winged Blackbirds – Their sharp, buzzing calls are one of the earliest sounds of spring. Males arrive first to claim territories in marshes and wetlands, with females following a few weeks later.

Eastern Phoebes – These small flycatchers show up early, often perching on fences and rooftops, flicking their tails as they search for insects. They are among the first songbirds to return and prefer nesting under porches or bridges.

Tree Swallows – As soon as flying insects become available, these agile birds return to fields and open spaces. They often take over nesting boxes before other cavity-nesting birds arrive.

These early migrants may still face cold nights and occasional snowfall, but their timing allows them to claim the best nesting spots before the competition arrives.

Mid-Season Migrants: The Main Wave

As temperatures rise and food becomes more abundant, the largest groups of migratory birds begin arriving. These birds wait until insects, nectar, and fresh vegetation are more reliable.

Warblers – These small, brightly colored songbirds pass through in large numbers. Some continue north to breed, while others settle into forests, wetlands, and backyards. Their quick movements and variety of songs make them a favorite among birdwatchers.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds – As flowers start blooming, these tiny birds return, following the availability of nectar. Some arrive earlier than expected if backyard feeders are stocked with sugar water.

Baltimore Orioles – These striking orange and black birds show up when fruiting trees and nectar sources become available. They are often seen in backyards where people put out oranges or grape jelly.

Sandhill Cranes – Large groups can be spotted flying high overhead, calling to each other as they move toward their northern breeding grounds. Many stop at wetland areas along the way, making them easier to observe.

These birds move through quickly in some areas and stay for the summer in others. Their arrival signals that spring migration is in full swing.

Late Arrivals: Warm Weather Specialists

Some birds wait until conditions are just right before making their return. These late migrants rely on steady insect populations, warm temperatures, and fully developed habitats.

Flycatchers – Species like the Eastern Kingbird and Great Crested Flycatcher need a reliable supply of flying insects. They arrive when bug activity is high, often perching on branches and darting out to catch food in midair.

Swallows and Swifts – Barn Swallows, Tree Swallows, and Chimney Swifts arrive when the air is full of insects. These birds stay in constant motion, feeding as they fly. Their timing depends on weather patterns that affect insect populations.

Shorebirds – Some of the longest-distance migrants, including sandpipers and plovers, travel from as far as South America. Many stop at coastal wetlands or mudflats before continuing north to their breeding grounds.

These birds take advantage of the best conditions, ensuring they have enough food and nesting space to raise their young. Their arrival marks the final stage of spring migration.

How to Track Migration in Real Time

Bird migration changes from year to year, but several tools make it easier to follow their movements. Technology and community observations help birdwatchers know when to expect arrivals in their area.

eBird Reports – Birders submit daily sightings, creating real-time maps of migration activity. Checking local reports shows which species have been seen nearby and how migration is progressing.

Weather Radar – Large groups of migrating birds appear on radar as they move through the night. Watching radar maps can show when big flights are happening and where birds are concentrated.

BirdCast – This online tool predicts peak migration nights based on weather patterns, wind conditions, and past data. Checking BirdCast before heading out helps birdwatchers know when to expect the most activity.

Local Nature Groups – Birding clubs and wildlife organizations often share migration updates. Joining a group or following their reports can help with planning the best times to go birdwatching.

Using these resources gives birdwatchers an advantage, making it easier to know when to look for returning species.

Making the Backyard Ready for Returning Birds

As migratory birds return, having a welcoming space helps them find food, water, and shelter. Small changes in the yard can make a big difference for both common and less frequent visitors.

Clean and set up feeders – Leftover seed husks and old food can build up over winter. Cleaning feeders with warm water and mild soap removes mold and bacteria. Fresh food like black-oil sunflower seeds and nectar for hummingbirds attracts a variety of species.

Provide a water source – Birds need fresh water for drinking and bathing. A birdbath, shallow dish, or small fountain keeps them hydrated. Adding a few stones gives smaller birds a safe place to perch while they drink.

Plant native flowers and shrubs – Native plants provide natural food sources, including berries, seeds, and nectar. Flowers like coneflowers, bee balm, and milkweed attract insects that many birds rely on for food.

Offer nesting materials – Birds build nests soon after arriving. Leaving small twigs, dry grass, and plant fibers in the yard helps them find what they need. Avoid using dryer lint, as it does not hold up well in wet weather.

Create shelter – Shrubs, brush piles, and trees give birds a safe place to rest and hide from predators. Even small yards can provide cover by planting dense vegetation or placing birdhouses in quiet areas.

These simple steps make it easier for returning birds to settle in and find what they need to thrive.