Blackpoll warblers are one of many bird species that make nonstop overwater flights across the Gulf of Mexico during migration. The northern Gulf coast is critical for migrants as it provides the first possible stopover habitat to rest and refuel following these energetically taxing crossings. Using weather surveillance radar data, we quantified the timing and intensity of trans-Gulf migrant arrival along the Gulf coast on both a daily and seasonal basis. Our findings add to understanding of the ecology of trans-Gulf migration, as well as provide information to support conservation efforts for the migratory birds passing through this critical, yet threatened, region. Photo credit: Kyle Horton.

Download high resolution file: ecog_2023_08_cover_chosen.pdf