Singing Birds: A Sure Sign Spring Is Coming to Montana?

Like me, you've probably heard the birds chirping more than usual lately, especially with the glorious weather we had last weekend.

However, before you put away your snow shovels and boots and pull out your gardening supplies, we need to take a look at what those lovely chirping sounds really mean.

Hormonal Changes and Birdsong in Late Winter

Field naturalist Bryan Pfeiffer shares an eye-opening insight: the increased bird activity in late winter isn't necessarily an announcement that glorious warm spring weather is just around the corner. Instead, the birdsong is male birds responding to longer days by producing hormones that inspire their singing as a prelude to the mating season.

Chirping Birds and the Winter Landscape

While the symphony of bird calls might lift our spirits and hint at the warmer days ahead, it's essential to consider that bird behavior in winter is influenced by various factors beyond just the weather.

In addition to signaling the upcoming mating season, the chirping can also signal to other birds that they need to back away because they’re getting a little too close for comfort to a fellow bird’s food supply.

Spring’s Arrival Date

Spring officially kicks off on Thursday, March 20th, 2025. This date, determined by the March equinox, heralds a moment when the sun shines directly over the equator, ushering in a season of rebirth and renewal.

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Remember, For Birds, Longer Days Signal Mating Season Ahead

As Patrick Comins, executive director of the Connecticut Audubon Society, highlights, the lengthening days do nudge our bird buddies to gear up for courtship rituals. So while daylight hours may extend, warmer weather isn’t an inevitable follow-up.