Peak migration is here, and along with it perils for migratory birds such as the common yellowthroat

Tom Murray A male yellowthroat seen May 12, 2023. Males arrive about two weeks before the females.

We’re in peak migration season for birds, and that means you’re probably seeing unusual numbers of common yellowthroats .

These birds ( Geothlypis trichas ) are one of the most common warblers in North America (hence the name). They begin arriving in Massachusetts during the first week of May and begin migrating south in September. Unlike some species of birds, they do not migrate all at once. The period from mid-September to mid-October is their peak season, and some will still be headed south in November. Songbirds such as the yellowthroat may double their body mass before they migrate. Most of this increase is fat. Unlike people, who burn carbohydrates to provide energy, birds bur