Millions of Birds! Iowa Skies Full of Feathers Tonight (9/19) and Saturday (9/21)

If you’ve ever glanced up at the night sky due to a cacophony of clicks, chirps, and screeches each fall and wondered, "what’s happening up there!?" You’re in for a treat. Right now, millions of birds are flying across Iowa in one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the fall migration! As of last night (9/18/24), over 262 million birds have already soared through our skies, and tonight, September 19th, along with Saturday, September 21st, millions more are expected to make the journey south.

Birds don’t waste any time, starting their migration 30 to 45 minutes after sunset. The biggest rush happens two to three hours later (heaviest hours are 10 pm to 2 am), with many species taking advantage of the cover of night to navigate safely. You may not be able to see them, but if a flock lands or flies overhead, you'll definitely hear them.

Birds tend to fly at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet during migration, using tailwinds to save energy. However, weather and geography can drastically alter their paths and speeds. Radar forecasts from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Colorado State University, based on 23 years of data, help predict these migrations. These forecasts are updated every six hours, showing where birds are flying and if they might encounter rain along the way.

So, what can we do to make sure our feathered friends arrive safely at their winter destinations?

1. Turn Off the Lights: Birds rely on the stars for navigation, and bright city lights can disorient them, leading to collisions with buildings. If you’re in an area with heavy migration, consider turning off unnecessary lights at night. Even better, if you’re in a downtown area, push for “Lights Out” initiatives to keep birds on the right path.

2. Bird-Safe Windows: Many birds crash into windows thinking they’re flying through open space. Adding decals or patterns to your windows can help birds recognize the glass and avoid it. There are also special bird-safe films that reduce reflections.

3. Keep Cats Indoors: Cats are amazing hunters, but they pose a huge threat to migratory birds, especially during this vulnerable time. Keeping cats inside can save countless bird lives.

4. Plant Native: Migrating birds are always looking for places to rest and refuel. By planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers, you can offer them a safe pit stop with food and shelter. This includes those hummingbird feeders, keep them out until early November!

Get our free mobile app

As fall migration continues through October, keep your eyes (and ears) open. Even if you can’t see them, you might hear their unique chirps and calls as they navigate the night sky. It’s an awe-inspiring reminder of the incredible journeys these small creatures undertake—and we can help make their travels a bit safer. I mean let's be honest a bunch of us Hawkeyes travel south for the winter too.