The Pacific Flyway is a major north-south flyway for migratory birds in the Americas, extending from Alaska to Patagonia.[1] Every year, migratory birds travel some or all of this distance both in spring and in fall, following food sources, heading to breeding grounds, or travelling to overwintering sites.[2]

Waterfowl flyways in the United States.
The Pacific Flyway is in green.

Any given bird species travels roughly the same route every year, at almost the same time. Ornithologists and birdwatchers can often predict to the day when a particular species will show up in their area.[3]

Waterfowl arriving in California's Central Valley in the fall

Notable locations

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Along the Pacific Flyway, there are many key rest stops where birds of many species gather, sometimes in the millions, to feed and regain their strength before continuing. Some species may remain in these rest stops for the entire season, but most stay a few days before moving on.[4]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "North American Migration Flyways". www.birdnature.com. May 11, 2021. Retrieved August 31, 2024.
  2. ^ Kathryn (May 16, 2022). "Avian Superhighways: The Four Flyways of North America". American Bird Conservancy. Retrieved August 31, 2024.
  3. ^ Olson, S. M. (2022). "Pacific Flyway Data Book" (PDF). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  4. ^ Tekiela, Stan (2018). Bird migration: the incredible journey of North American birds. Cambridge, Minnesota: Adventure Publications. ISBN 978-1-59193-814-9. OCLC 1014353260.

Further reading

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  • Wilson, Robert M. (2010). Seeking Refuge: Birds and Landscapes of the Pacific Flyway. Seattle: University of Washington Press. ISBN 978-0-295-99211-2.
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