Magnolia Warbler. — Connecticut Audubon Society photo
Instead of keeping an eye on the thermometer, you can be sure of spring by keeping an eye on the trees. Not only for buds, but for birds.
As the earliest of the tree flowers begin to bloom, there will be insects. And where “bugs” are, birds are sure to follow. In fact, insects drawn to the early-flowering trees are important food for warblers, tanagers and other small migrants heading north in the weeks to come. Some will stop here to nest for the summer while many others eat and run, heading farther north.
For bird watchers the leafless limbs of early spring are a blessing. The scores of colorful arrivals are much easier to spot without lots of green blocking the view.
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