Mary Cope
Now that winter has set in, with its icy force and frigid winds, many of us are traveling south, whether it is for a brief or extended visit. What some people don’t realize is that many species of animals have been going to more temperate areas during the winter for hundreds of years.
Most animals that migrate are birds, because it is far faster to fly than to travel across the land. Many of the bird species we see during the summer months travel south for the winter, such as hummingbirds, orioles, sparrows, thrushes, wrens, and red-winged blackbirds. Canadian geese travel in the classic “V” formation, and several species of birds of prey pass through our area during their migration. Mammals that cannot travel as far have adapted to winter by hibernating and sleeping through the harsh months.
As you take off on your southern-bound vacations, remember to look around for the friendly faces of our feathered summer pals. Be sure to invite them back soon!
