Image courtesy Canva

Spring bird migration is underway at Cheyenne Bottoms, with several species arriving earlier than usual, according to the latest bird sightings report from the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.

Observers at the wetlands are seeing high numbers of waterfowl, with ducks dominating sightings and northern pintails especially abundant. Several sandhill cranes have been spotted flying over the area for weeks, and a whooping crane was seen with a flock of sandhill cranes on February 24, an early record for the endangered species.

A variety of other birds have also been reported in recent weeks, ranging from snow geese, wood ducks, and mallards to raptors like bald eagles and golden eagles, as well as shorebirds such as greater yellowlegs and Wilson’s snipe. Songbirds, sparrows, and blackbirds are also appearing as spring intensifies.

Water levels at Cheyenne Bottoms and nearby Quivira National Wildlife Refuge remain favorable, offering excellent habitat for migrating birds. Birders are encouraged to submit sightings to eBird or contact the Wetlands Center to help track migration activity throughout the season.