2022 Birding Journal Observations - September / October

Female Rose-Breasted Grosbeak on Oct. 10

Warm and dry conditions in September kept the birding activity levels normal, but a sharp drop off came after the passing of Hurricane Ian on Sept. 29. Migratory birds such as hummingbirds took that as a cue to leave and head South, which was a bit earlier than usual. Other backyard songbirds got dispersed, and while some eventually returned to backyard feeders, there largely remained a noticeable drop off in the quantity of bird seed being consumed. But then a few late migrants passed though in October, and with other species like yellow-bellied sapsuckers returning to their winter haunts, birds not directly affected by Ian undertook their routines.

Canada geese, barn swallows, blue jays, and an assortment of woodpeckers have been easy to spot. Brown-headed nuthatch and yellow-billed cuckoo now occupy the places where the summer tanager relinquished following Ian. An increase in Bald Eagle sightings and other hawks also seems typical for their annual Fall migration patterns. Dry conditions remain in place in the Lowcountry, and mild temperatures have been widespread, as the extreme heat of summer dissipates. The last days before the switch to Daylight Savings Time affects man far more than the birds or critters of the natural world.

Female Painted Bunting on Oct. 22

To view the most recent Birding Journal Observations clic on July / August 2022

To view past Birding Journal Observations for September / October click on 2021 - 2018- 2017 - 2016 - 2015 - 2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - 2009