Nature Happenings

May

  • Over 250 species of wildflowers bloom this month in our fields and forests.
  • Mexican free-tailed bats begin raising young.
  • Peak of warbler migration happens very early in the month.
  • The first half of the month is peak migration for flycatchers, thrushes and northerly vireos.
  • Nighthawks and Chimney Swifts return.
  • Sub-adult Purple Martins return to establish new colonies early in month.
  • Peak of bird courtship. Listen for the dawn chorus.
  • Nesting materials are being collected.
  • Orioles return and begin nesting. Be sure to have their feeders, nectar, fruit and jelly out early.
  • The first fireflies of the year can be seen.
  • Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Wood Duck and Mallard ducklings hatch and venture forth early this month.
  • Eta Aquarids meteor shower is early-May.
  • International Migratory Bird Day is mid-May.