Wake up early this spring to catch the “acoustic dawn”-- nature in concert at the break of day.
The robins are usually first to harmonize. One by one they join in. Their warbled songs mingle and carry for blocks. The whistles of cardinals’ up the tempo to a brightening sky -- as mourning doves coo like backup singers. In the country, the riffs of meadowlarks, field sparrows and bluebirds mix in. The singing builds to a crescendo. Then, in less than one half hour, it subsides. By sunrise the total number of singers has wound down as many birds are searching for food.
This “acoustic dawn” is jam-packed in May and June as birds sing for their territories. The songs of the season are a great way to start your day.
Birdwatching Top Tips:
- Go birdwatching with your ears. You will first hear them before you can find and see them.
- Use your eyes before binoculars. Direct your eyes toward the sounds and look for movement to hone in on a location before using binoculars.
- Be quiet and still. Birds strongest senses are sight and hearing. Humans are natural predators and our sounds and sights can chase them away.
- Wear clothing that blends. Darker browns and greens will blend but a bright red can scare birds away.
- Use a field guide. These will help you learn the sights and sounds of certain species.
- Know your habitat. Learn which birds live in the forest, wetland or your backyard.
For more great tips on where to listen and look for birds in Missouri, check out the Great Missouri Birding Trail.
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