MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. — Birds have returned to Yellowstone National Park!
“The presence of several bird species marks the beginning of springtime here in Yellowstone,” said the park this morning.
The Yellowstone bird program monitors the spring arrival of species to the park and the timing of nest initiation and fledging for several raptor species. This can be useful in observing the effects of climate change in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
The park adds that spring is an ideal time to look for birds. Migration brings many birds back to the park from their winter journeys south; other birds are passing through to more northern nesting areas. Songbirds sing to establish and defend their territories and many ducks are in their colorful breeding plumages, making identification easier.
Yellowstone maintains a bird checklist that outlines each species and the seasons they can be found in the park. Check out the list here.
