Migrating Birds in Indiana: Spring and Fall Identification in 30 Days

Indiana sits along one of North America’s most active migration corridors, hosting over 300 bird species throughout the year.

During peak migration seasons, you’ll witness an incredible transformation as millions of birds pass through the state, creating some of the most spectacular birdwatching opportunities in the Midwest.

Whether you’re scanning wetlands for waterfowl or watching warblers flit through your backyard trees, understanding which migrating birds in Indiana to expect and when they arrive will dramatically improve your birding success.

From the massive Canada Geese formations that herald autumn’s arrival to the delicate Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that grace summer gardens, Indiana’s diverse habitats support an remarkable variety of migratory species.

You’ll discover that timing is everything – knowing whether to look up for raptors in September or listen for warbler songs in May can mean the difference between ordinary walks and extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Migrating Birds in Indiana

Indiana’s position along the Mississippi Flyway makes it a critical stopover point for birds traveling between breeding grounds in Canada and wintering areas in Central and South America.

The state’s varied landscapes – from Lake Michigan shorelines to southern forests – provide essential habitat for different species throughout their migration cycles.

Canada Goose

The Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) represents one of Indiana’s most recognizable migrating birds, though many populations now remain year-round. You’ll easily identify these large waterfowl by their distinctive black heads and necks with bright white chinstraps, brown bodies, and honking calls that echo across wetlands.

Spring migration peaks from February through March, while fall movements begin in September and continue through November. Large flocks often form V-shaped formations during migration, utilizing thermals and wind currents for efficient long-distance travel.

Pro Tip: Look for Canada Geese in parks, golf courses, and agricultural fields during migration, not just waterways. They’re excellent grazers and often feed in large groups on grass and waste grain.

Snow Goose

Snow Geese (Anser caerulescens) create some of Indiana’s most spectacular migration displays, with thousands of pure white birds (and their blue morph variants) filling the sky during peak movement periods. These medium-sized geese show pink bills and legs, with black wingtips visible in flight.

Peak migration occurs from mid-February through March in spring and October through November in fall. Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area hosts some of the largest concentrations, with numbers sometimes exceeding 300,000 birds during peak periods.

You’ll hear Snow Geese before you see them – their high-pitched, barking calls carry for miles. They prefer large agricultural fields for feeding and shallow wetlands for roosting.

Mallard

Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) serve as the classic example of dabbling ducks, with breeding males displaying iridescent green heads, white neck rings, and chestnut breasts.

Females show mottled brown plumage with bright blue wing patches called speculums.

While some Mallards remain in Indiana year-round, major migration movements occur from February through April in spring and September through November in fall.

These adaptable ducks utilize virtually any water source, from small ponds to large lakes.

Key Takeaway: Mallards are excellent starter birds for beginning waterfowl identification, as their distinctive features and widespread distribution make them reliable subjects for learning duck behavior and habitat preferences.

Northern Pintail

Northern Pintails (Anas acuta) stand out among dabbling ducks with their elegant, elongated necks and pointed tails.

Breeding males show chocolate-brown heads with white breast stripes extending up their necks, while females display subtle brown and buff tones.

Spring migration runs from February through April, with fall movements from August through October.

These ducks prefer shallow wetlands and flooded agricultural fields.

Northern Pintails are among the earliest spring migrants, often arriving while ice still covers many water bodies.

You’ll often observe pintails “tipping up” to feed on submerged vegetation, their distinctive tail feathers pointing skyward as they forage underwater.

Blue-winged Teal

Blue-winged Teal (Spatula discors) are small, fast-flying ducks that challenge even experienced birders with their rapid movements.

Males feature distinctive white facial crescents against blue-gray heads, while both sexes show bright blue wing patches visible in flight.

These are among Indiana’s latest spring arrivals (April-May) and earliest fall migrants (August-September).

Blue-winged Teal prefer shallow, nutrient-rich wetlands with abundant invertebrate food sources.

Watch for their characteristic swift, erratic flight patterns low over water surfaces. They often travel in small flocks and can quickly disappear into emergent vegetation.

Green-winged Teal

Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca) rank as North America’s smallest dabbling ducks.

Males display chestnut heads with distinctive green ear patches, while females show subtle brown markings. Both sexes reveal bright green wing speculums during flight.

Spring migration spans February through April, with fall movements from September through November.

These hardy little ducks can tolerate colder conditions than most teal species, often remaining later into winter.

Green-winged Teal prefer muddy shorelines and shallow water edges where they can dabble for seeds and small invertebrates.

Their small size allows them to utilize tiny wetland areas other ducks might ignore.

Greater Yellowlegs

Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) are tall, elegant shorebirds with bright yellow legs and slightly upturned bills. Their mottled gray and white plumage provides excellent camouflage against muddy shorelines and shallow water backgrounds.

Spring migration peaks from March through May, while fall movements extend from July through October. These active foragers wade through shallow water, swinging their bills side to side to capture small fish, frogs, and aquatic insects.

Listen for their loud, ringing calls – typically three or four clear notes that carry well across wetland areas. Greater Yellowlegs are often the first to sound alarm calls when predators approach.

Lesser Yellowlegs

Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) closely resemble their larger relatives but show proportionally shorter, straighter bills and more refined features. These medium-sized shorebirds demonstrate similar yellow legs and mottled plumage patterns.

Migration timing mirrors Greater Yellowlegs, but Lesser Yellowlegs tend to prefer slightly deeper water and different foraging techniques. They often pick food items from the water surface rather than probing deeply like their larger cousins.

Common Mistake: Many birders assume all yellowlegs are the same species. Pay attention to bill length, body proportions, and voice – Lesser Yellowlegs typically give one or two soft notes compared to the Greater’s louder three or four note call.

Semipalmated Sandpiper

Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla) represent the classic “peep” – small, brown sandpipers that can challenge even expert birders. These compact shorebirds show straight, black bills and partially webbed toes (the “semipalmate” feature).

Spring migration occurs from April through May, with fall movements spanning July through September. Juveniles in fall often show more distinct plumage patterns than worn breeding adults, making identification somewhat easier.

Watch for large flocks moving like synchronized dancers along muddy shorelines, constantly probing for tiny invertebrates. They often mix with other small sandpiper species, creating identification challenges.

Killdeer

Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) break the typical shorebird mold by frequenting open fields, parking lots, and golf courses far from water. These medium-sized plovers display distinctive double breast bands and rusty rumps visible in flight.

While some Killdeer nest in Indiana, major migration movements occur from February through April in spring and August through October in fall. Their loud, piercing “kill-deer” calls make them easily identifiable even at considerable distances.

Killdeer are famous for their “broken wing” distraction displays when protecting nests or young, dragging one wing while calling frantically to lead potential threats away from vulnerable areas.

Broad-winged Hawk

Broad-winged Hawks (Buteo platypterus) create one of Indiana’s most spectacular migration events during September, when thousands funnel through the state in massive “kettles” – swirling flocks riding thermal updrafts.

These compact raptors show broad wings with distinctive black and white banding on tails and wing undersides. Adults display rusty-barred breasts, while juveniles show streaked underparts. Peak migration typically occurs during the third week of September, often triggered by cold front passages.

Pro Tip: Watch for Broad-winged Hawks on clear, sunny days following cold fronts. They rely heavily on thermal currents for efficient migration and rarely move during overcast conditions.

Red-tailed Hawk

Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) represent Indiana’s most common and recognizable raptors. Adults show distinctive rusty-red tails visible from above, while juveniles display brown-banded tails. Their broad wings and stocky build make them excellent soaring birds.

While many Red-tailed Hawks remain in Indiana year-round, northern populations migrate through the state from September through November in fall and February through April in spring. These adaptable hunters utilize diverse habitats from open fields to woodland edges.

You’ll often observe Red-tailed Hawks perched on telephone poles, fence posts, or prominent tree branches, scanning for rodents, rabbits, and other prey items.

Northern Harrier

Northern Harriers (Circus hudsonius) demonstrate unique hunting behaviors among Indiana’s raptors, flying low over marshes and grasslands with distinctive tilting flight patterns. Males show gray upperparts with black wingtips, while females and juveniles display brown plumage with streaked underparts.

Spring migration spans March through May, with fall movements from August through October. All ages and sexes show prominent white rump patches – excellent field marks visible from considerable distances.

Northern Harriers prefer large, open areas with scattered perches. Watch for their characteristic low, coursing flight as they hunt for small mammals, frogs, and birds in tall grass or emergent vegetation.

Osprey

Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) rank among Indiana’s most impressive fish-eating raptors, with specialized adaptations including reversible outer toes and spiky pads for gripping slippery prey. These large raptors show dark brown upperparts and white underparts with distinctive dark wrist patches.

Spring migration occurs from March through May, while fall movements span August through October. Ospreys require clear water for hunting, making them reliable indicators of healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Watch for Ospreys hovering over water before spectacular feet-first dives to capture fish. They often carry prey head-forward during flight, streamlining their catch for efficient transport.

Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) represent the ultimate aerial predator, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 200 mph during hunting dives. These medium-sized falcons show blue-gray upperparts, barred underparts, and distinctive “tear marks” extending from their eyes.

Migration peaks during September-October in fall and March-April in spring. Urban areas with tall buildings often host migrating Peregrines, as these structures mimic their preferred cliff nesting habitats.

Key Takeaway: Peregrine Falcons primarily hunt other birds, making areas with high songbird concentrations excellent places to observe these magnificent predators during migration.

American Robin

American Robins (Turdus migratorius) serve as harbingers of spring for many Indiana residents, though some populations remain year-round. These familiar thrushes show brick-red breasts, dark heads, and cheerful songs that signal seasonal changes.

Major migration movements occur from February through April in spring and September through November in fall. Robins often travel in large flocks during migration, congregating in areas with abundant fruit sources like crabapples and sumac.

During migration, you’ll observe different behavior patterns than breeding season – large flocks feeding in open areas rather than individual birds defending territories on lawns.

Baltimore Oriole

Baltimore Orioles (Icterus galbula) bring tropical colors to Indiana’s spring landscape with males displaying brilliant orange and black plumage. Females show more subtle yellow-orange tones with gray-brown backs and wings.

Spring arrival typically occurs from late April through May, with fall departure spanning August through September. These skilled architects weave intricate hanging nests from tree branches, often 20-30 feet above ground.

Baltimore Orioles show strong preferences for mature shade trees, especially elms, maples, and cottonwoods. They’re attracted to orange slices, grape jelly, and nectar feeders during migration periods.

Scarlet Tanager

Scarlet Tanagers (Piranga olivacea) rank among Indiana’s most striking songbirds when breeding males display brilliant red bodies contrasting with jet-black wings and tails. Females and non-breeding males show yellow-green plumage that provides excellent forest camouflage.

Spring migration occurs from late April through May, with fall movements from August through September. These canopy-dwelling birds prefer mature deciduous forests with closed overhead coverage.

Listen for their robin-like songs with a distinctive hoarse quality – often described as “robin with a sore throat.” Scarlet Tanagers primarily feed on insects gleaned from tree branches and foliage.

Indigo Bunting

Indigo Buntings (Passerina cyanea) showcase incredible sexual dimorphism, with breeding males displaying deep blue plumage that appears almost electric in sunlight. Females show warm brown tones with subtle streaking and blue wing highlights.

Migration timing spans late April through May in spring and August through September in fall. These edge-loving birds prefer areas where forests meet open spaces, including power line corridors, overgrown fields, and woodland borders.

Common Mistake: Indigo Buntings often appear black in poor lighting conditions. Observe them in bright sunlight to see their true brilliant blue coloration.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (Pheucticus ludovicianus) feature among Indiana’s most beautiful songbirds, with breeding males showing striking black and white plumage accented by bright red triangular breast patches. Females display streaked brown and white patterns resembling large sparrows.

Spring migration peaks from late April through May, while fall movements occur from August through September. These woodland birds prefer mature forests with diverse tree species providing varied food sources throughout the growing season.

Their powerful bills easily crack large seeds and nuts, making them valuable visitors to feeders offering sunflower seeds during migration periods.

Eastern Kingbird

Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) demonstrate classic flycatcher behavior with their aggressive territory defense and aerial insect hunting techniques.

These medium-sized birds show black upperparts, white underparts, and distinctive white tail bands.

Migration spans from late April through May in spring and August through September in fall. Eastern Kingbirds prefer open areas with scattered perches for launching insect-catching flights, including agricultural areas, parks, and woodland edges.

Watch for their characteristic upright posture on fence posts and dead branches, along with their fearless attacks on much larger birds that enter their territories.

Yellow Warbler

Yellow Warblers (Setophaga petechia) bring sunshine to Indiana’s riparian areas with their bright yellow plumage and sweet songs. Males show rusty breast streaks, while females display more subdued yellow tones throughout.

Spring migration occurs from late April through May, with fall movements from July through August. These active insectivores prefer willow and cottonwood thickets near water sources, making them reliable indicators of healthy wetland edges.

Yellow Warblers often fall victim to Brown-headed Cowbird parasitism but have developed the ability to recognize foreign eggs and sometimes build new nest layers over them.

Black-and-white Warbler

Black-and-white Warblers (Mniotilta varia) show unique foraging behavior among wood-warblers, creeping along tree trunks and branches like nuthatches while searching for insects in bark crevices. Their distinctive striped plumage makes identification straightforward.

These early migrants arrive from late April through May in spring, with fall movements spanning August through September. Their specialized feeding technique allows them to exploit food sources unavailable to other warbler species.

Watch for their characteristic spiraling movements around tree trunks, often starting at the base and working upward in search of hidden insects and larvae.

Palm Warbler

Palm Warblers (Setophaga palmarum) break typical warbler habitat preferences by frequenting open areas, edges, and ground-level foraging sites. These medium-sized warblers show distinctive tail-pumping behavior and rusty caps during breeding season.

Spring migration occurs from April through May, while fall movements span August through October. Unlike most warblers, Palm Warblers often forage on the ground and in low vegetation rather than high in tree canopies.

Their constant tail-wagging behavior provides an excellent identification feature even at considerable distances or in poor lighting conditions.

Common Yellowthroat

Common Yellowthroats (Geothlypis trichas) inhabit dense, low vegetation where their secretive nature and distinctive songs reveal their presence. Males display bright yellow throats and breasts with prominent black facial masks, while females show more subdued yellow and brown tones.

Migration timing spans from late April through May in spring and August through September in fall. These skulking birds prefer cattail marshes, wet meadows, and dense thickets where they hunt insects close to ground level.

Listen for their distinctive “witchity-witchity-witchity” songs echoing from dense cover – often your best clue to their presence in suitable habitat.

Chimney Swift

Chimney Swifts (Chaetura pelagica) spend virtually their entire lives airborne, landing only to roost and nest in chimneys, hollow trees, and similar vertical structures. These small, dark birds show distinctive boomerang-shaped silhouettes during their rapid, erratic flight.

Spring arrival occurs from late April through May, with fall departure spanning August through September. These aerial insectivores can consume thousands of flying insects daily, making them valuable for natural pest control.

Pro Tip: Never see Chimney Swifts perched on wires or branches – they physically cannot do so due to their specialized foot structure designed for clinging to vertical surfaces.

Barn Swallow

Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) showcase elegant flight patterns with their deeply forked tails and streamlined bodies. These graceful birds display steel-blue upperparts, rusty underparts, and distinctive long tail streamers that aid in aerial maneuverability.

Migration spans from March through May in spring and August through September in fall. These aerial acrobats prefer open areas near water where flying insects concentrate, including farms, fields, and lakes.

Barn Swallows construct distinctive cup-shaped mud nests under bridges, in barns, and beneath building overhangs, often returning to the same structures year after year.

Purple Martin

Purple Martins (Progne subis) represent North America’s largest swallows, with adult males showing glossy purple-black plumage and females displaying duller upperparts with gray-brown underparts.

Spring arrival occurs from March through April, making them among the earliest swallow migrants. Fall departure spans July through August. These colonial nesters have become almost entirely dependent on human-provided housing in eastern North America.

Purple Martins require specific housing designs and locations for successful nesting, making them challenging birds to attract but rewarding when colonies establish.

Common Nighthawk

Common Nighthawks (Chordeiles minor) demonstrate crepuscular behavior, becoming active during dawn and dusk hours when their aerial insect hunting proves most effective. These medium-sized birds show cryptic brown and gray plumage with distinctive white wing patches visible during flight.

Migration timing varies, with spring movements from April through May and spectacular fall migrations from August through September. Large flocks sometimes contain hundreds of individuals during peak migration periods.

Listen for their distinctive “peent” calls and watch for their erratic, moth-like flight patterns as they pursue flying insects in open airspace above fields, lakes, and urban areas.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) amaze observers with their incredible flight capabilities, including backward flight and sustained hovering while feeding. Males display brilliant red throat patches that flash like jewels in sunlight, while females show white throats with green upperparts.

Spring arrival occurs from April through May, with fall migration spanning July through September. These tiny migrants make incredible journeys, including non-stop flights across the Gulf of Mexico during migration.

Key Takeaway

Understanding migration timing helps you plan the most productive birdwatching excursions.

Spring migration typically offers better views of breeding plumages, while fall migration often provides larger numbers and longer observation windows.

The diversity of migrating birds in Indiana reflects the state’s critical position along major flyways and its variety of habitats that support different species’ needs during their incredible journeys.

By learning to identify these 30 species and understanding their seasonal patterns, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for the remarkable phenomenon of bird migration and your role in supporting these traveling populations through habitat conservation and citizen science efforts.