Warblers of more than 30 species dripped from the trees like so many Christmas ornaments. And best of all, the birds had temporarily lost their fear of humans. Sanctuary workers had even set up bleachers at the best spots so visitors could view the spectacle in comfort. For every hundred birds that succeed in making landfall, an unknown number have perished at sea from exhaustion. Occasionally, hundreds or even thousands of bodies wash up on shore, giving a hint as to the scope of the disaster.
Northwesterly winds are especially troublesome, blowing migrants away from the coast.
No one really knows. Overwater migration is shorter than a land crossing would be, and that may be a factor. Still, the fact that the birds continue their migration across the Gulf suggests that, in the long run, this route offers advantages that a seemingly less hazardous migration over land must lack. Banner Golden-cheeked Warbler photo copyright 1988 Greg Lasley. All rights reserved.