Snowbirds are trekking South
The holidays are almost over. The children and grandchildren have gone back home and the air is cold and crispy icy. The ground is covered with snow or ice. Northerly winds let us know that more snow is imminent anywhere in the Midwest and Northeast. It’s time for the migration of the Snowbirds. With the Holidays over, the Snowbirds can’t leave their nests in the north fast enough!
Snowbirds have beautiful white or gray coloring. Some even have shiny, smooth heads. Most have distinctive skin wrinkles. Some are small, while others are large. Some are short, while others are tall. Every Snowbird has its own markings, but all are unique creatures.
Snowbirds usually don’t make the trip south until they are 60 years old or older. The peak period of movement for Snowbirds starts in November and by January 1st all of them will have departed for warmer climes. Their favorite winter homes are in Florida, Alabama, Texas and Arizona. Any place that is warm and snow-free is desirable to these old birds. They greatly fear snow, ice and cold weather.
Snowbirds nest in recreational vehicles, trailers and condominiums during the winter months. They are most content in small nests while in the south. These small nests have minimum upkeep which gives them more time to play.
This desire to play is a major characteristic of Snowbirds. One of the main reasons they migrate south is to play for the winter. They love to golf, bike, swim, dance, walk, sing, craft, knit, crochet, exercise, read, and eat… and party hearty. The more fun they can find by playing, the happier these old birds are!
The second common characteristic among the Snowbirds is the need to relax. This usually occurs after they have played hard, but not necessarily. It is a common sight to see male Snowbirds stretched out, sound asleep, snoring loudly in the middle of the day.
The winter feeding pattern of Snowbirds is very different than it is up north. They like to try new feeding stations while in the south, frequenting those with “early bird specials.” These birds like to eat earlier than they did when they were younger. They will eat a wide variety of foods, and often in larger quantities.
Snowbirds are very social creatures who will party at the drop of a hat! They congregate whenever possible to spend time together. Happy Hours, dinners, church, cards, choirs, campfires…any get-together is a good time for these old birds.
Beware they’re on their way. Put some food in your feeders and welcome them, because this year they may be all we’re going to get here in Florida.
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