Ridges, Rivers and Coastlines
Raptor Migration
Coastlines, rivers, and systems of mountain ridges provide geographic guides for the fall raptor migration in the northeast. This results in concentrations along certain routes and usually provides exceptional viewing opportunities in places like southern New Jersey. An average of 50,000 to 60,000 raptors pass through Cape May Point on their way to the tropics each fall.
Northeast Raptor Migration
Raptor migration occurs in the spring and fall. While the migration of these birds of prey is closely linked to seasonal changes, it is more directly related to the availability of food.
Sixteen species of raptors commonly migrate through the eastern United States. During the summer, they prey heavily on insects, song birds, rodents, and reptiles. With the onset of cold temperatures, these food sources become more scarce and the hawks are forced to migrate into more temperate climates in search of new sources. Can you think of things that might go wrong on such a long journey and what the hawks might need along the way?
Requirements for Safe Passage
Try to imagine being a raptor on a lengthy flight of 1,000 to 3,000 miles, and then think about what you would need for safe passage along the way.
Hawks, warblers, fly-catchers, and thrushes require extensive forest tracts. Shorebirds require mudflats to feed and secluded sand bars and beaches to roost. Ducks, blackbirds, and wading birds need marshes – some fresh, some salt, and some brackish.
One of the greatest crises facing New Jersey is how to protect these critical areas. Destroy the habitat, and we jeopardize the existence of our birds.
Marker can be reached from Lighthouse Avenue, on the left when traveling south.
Courtesy hmdb.org
