Sitting on Holmes beach at 70th street

Question

Why are there so many birds flying south to north? Several groups. None north to south?

Answer

What you’re observing on Holmes Beach at 70th Street is likely related to migratory behavior or local feeding patterns of coastal birds. The direction of flight (south to north) can be influenced by seasonal migration timing, weather conditions, and local geography.

Here are some key points to consider:

Seasonal Migration: Many shorebirds and coastal species migrate along the Atlantic Flyway. Depending on the time of year, you may see more birds moving north (spring) or south (fall). For example, in spring, birds move north to their breeding grounds.
Local Food Sources: Birds often follow areas where food is abundant, such as sandbars, tidal flats, or inlets. Groups moving in one direction may indicate they are heading toward a prime feeding area.
Wind and Weather Patterns: Birds often take advantage of prevailing winds for energy-efficient travel. A northerly flight might coincide with favorable wind currents or thermal updrafts along the coast.
Group Behavior: Birds like shorebirds, pelicans, or gulls tend to fly in flocks in a single direction during feeding or roosting movements. If the conditions favor northward flight, you may see large groups moving together.

It’s not unusual to see birds flying predominantly in one direction while you observe. The south-to-north movement could be due to:

Spring migration toward northern breeding areas.
Local daily feeding routes where birds move north to forage in shallow waters or intertidal zones.
Influence of wind direction or tidal currents that make northbound flight easier at that time.

Overall, the pattern you’re seeing is typical in coastal Florida. Birds may appear one-directional during certain times of day or season, and you might notice southbound flights at different times or in different weather conditions.