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Book 7, Question 92 · Video

Why Do Birds Migrate with the Seasons?

Video · 2:02 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 7

Many birds migrate with the seasons to follow food and find safe weather for nesting. When winter makes insects and plants scarce, they travel to places with more food. Migration i

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do birds migrate with the seasons?

The Big Idea

Many birds migrate with the seasons to follow food and find safe weather for nesting. When winter makes insects and plants scarce, they travel to places with more food. Migration is a weather and food road trip!

Food Runs Out

Step one: food gets scarce. In cold places, insects disappear and plants stop making seeds and fruit. Birds that eat these foods need to go somewhere else.

Seasonal Signals

Step two: birds sense the change. Shorter days and cooler weather are signals. Birds get restless and eat extra to build up fat for the long trip. Their bodies are ready to fly.

The Long Journey

Step three: the journey begins. Many birds fly south for the winter, using the Sun, stars, landmarks, and even Earth's magnetic field to find their way. In spring, they head back north to nest.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at a migration! In summer, birds nest where food is plentiful. Autumn weather and shorter days give the signal. The flock sets off on a long journey. They spend winter where the food and weather are better.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! The Arctic tern flies from the Arctic to Antarctica and back. It is one of the longest migrations of any animal! Many birds migrate at night, and they use the stars to steer. Some birds, like chickadees, stay all winter. Look, but don't disturb nests or chase birds. Keep your distance.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Let's watch for migrating flocks. In spring or fall, look up and watch for flocks flying in V shapes. Which direction are they heading? Write down the date and the weather. Always watch from a safe spot.

Outro

Birds read the seasons and travel thousands of kilometers. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this