Signs of Spring: The Return of Migratory Birds

The return of migratory birds marks one of the most beautiful signs of the approaching spring season. Currently, many bird species are arriving in Germany, bringing joy to both nature and residents with their melodious songs.

In various regions, these birds can already be spotted and heard. Numerous cranes, storks, and other species have returned from their winter habitats, while many others are still en route. The arrival of different bird species in Germany occurs over an extended timeframe, with long-distance migrants typically arriving later in the season. Generally, birds tend to arrive earlier in southern and western Germany than in the northern and eastern parts.

Among the first arrivals are the starlings, some of which have been back since January. These birds are known for their striking formations as they fly in large flocks. Male starlings tend to be solitary upon their return as they quickly establish and defend their nesting territories against competitors.

The song thrushes, returning from wintering locations in North Africa and southern and western Europe, begin to arrive between early February and early March. These birds can be recognized by their loud, repetitive songs, and they prefer habitats near forests, parks, and gardens. Visually, they are similar in size to blackbirds and can be identified by the dark spots on their lighter undersides.

The house redstart, named the Bird of the Year for 2025, arrives in Germany from North Africa and the Middle East starting in early March. This gray bird, originally from rocky mountainous regions, adapts well to human settlements. Its vibrant red tail feathers are more noticeable when the bird is in motion. The garden redstart, a close relative, has an orange breast and typically arrives in Germany by the end of March after wintering south of the Sahara.

Another notable species is the nightingale, known for its remarkable singing ability. Although challenging to spot due to its preference for dense bushes near water, its diverse and beautiful song is unmistakable. Nightingales return from tropical Africa no earlier than mid-April.

Swallows, including the barn swallow and the house martin, are among the later arrivals. Barn swallows, identifiable by their forked tails, are usually seen in southern Germany by late March, while they arrive in northern regions in April. House martins tend to nest on the exteriors of buildings and are expected to arrive around the end of April.

Lastly, the swift, one of the last migratory birds to return, arrives in Germany from sub-Saharan Africa between late April and early May. Swifts are larger than swallows and have long, sickle-shaped wings, which they use to glide rather than flap frequently. They prefer urban areas, often flying in large, vocal groups. Interestingly, swifts are also among the first migratory birds to depart, leaving in August.

Upon their return, male birds swiftly secure prime breeding territories, marking them with their songs to attract females. The mating season begins when conditions are favorable, particularly when sufficient food sources like insects and spiders are available, usually starting around mid-March. The period from mating to egg-laying typically spans one to two weeks, with the incubation phase lasting approximately two weeks.