Bird Migration:

Tips, Events, and Ways to Get Involved

As fall winds down in Millburn and Short Hills, the last of the neo-tropical birds are making their way south to warmer destinations in Central and South America. But as these migrants depart, a new wave of winter visitors is just beginning to arrive from Canada. Keep your eyes open for species like Dark-eyed Juncos, Harlequin Ducks, Snow Buntings, and White-throated Sparrows as they settle into their New Jersey winter homes.

For those new to birdwatching, now is the perfect time to set up your backyard feeders. Not sure where to start? The Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is offering a Bird Feeding 101 class this season to help residents choose the right feeder and stock it with food that will attract a variety of species.

If you're already an experienced bird feeder, consider participating in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s FeederWatch program. Running from November through April, FeederWatch turns simple birdwatching into valuable scientific data. Volunteers across North America log sightings of backyard birds, contributing to vital research about winter bird populations and migration patterns.

And mark your calendars for next spring! The Arboretum is thrilled to announce Beak Week—a fun, weeklong birding competition and fundraiser running April 17–24, 2026. Bird lovers of all ages and experience levels are invited to form teams, gather pledges, and see how many species they can spot across New Jersey. It’s a great way for the community to come together, build awareness around conservation, and celebrate the feathered friends who share our environment. Register now at: go.rallyup.com/beakweek2026

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned birder, there’s no better moment to get involved. Help support local wildlife, contribute to real science, and join in the joy of watching nature thrive in our own backyard.