Spring migration in Philadelphia occurs from the last week of April through the first three weeks of May. Many songbirds migrate at night along the Atlantic Flyway, a major north-south migration route. Warm fronts in spring bring waves of birds, and when temperatures rise, the next morning is typically great for birding. Migrating birds often concentrate in smaller parks, making these spaces ideal for bird enthusiasts.
BirdPhilly.org lists over forty public bird walks scheduled for migration season, with many visits to smaller parks like FDR, Fisher Park, and Rittenhouse Square.
While large parks like Pennypack, Wissahickon, and Fairmount Park are excellent for birding, knowing where to look is key. During cool mornings, you are more likely to see:
- Warblers
- Vireos
- Flycatchers
Insects remain dormant in the forest’s interior. The warmer, sunlit edges are better for birding. Forest edges, meadows, and areas where trees have fallen create openings in the canopy, offering ideal spots for songbirds. These birds often forage on the forest floor, in shrubs, or in the understory, so varied vegetation is important.
In addition to songbirds, Philadelphia is home to many raptors and waterbirds. Pennypack on the Delaware (POD) hosts an active Bald Eagle nest, along with ducks, gulls, and cormorants. Peregrine Falcons nest on City Hall and St. John the Baptist Church in Manayunk. Venice Island, with views of the Schuylkill River, provides excellent birding for waterfowl, herons, wood ducks, and kingfishers.
BirdPhilly and local centers also offer bird walks, with Wissahickon hosting “Migration Madness” walks on Fridays from April 25 to May 30. Binoculars are available to borrow at BirdPhilly, PPR Environmental Center, and the Free Library of Philadelphia.
