Fall migration in flight: What to know about bird species flying south

Fall migration has already begun, with some species starting their route south as early as the beginning of August.

Birder Melissa Mayntz, originally from Petoskey, said the best ways to help birds ahead of fall migration is to keep feeders full and keep lights off — especially near shorelines.

Mayntz has published two books about birds, both were named as Silver winners in the Nautilus Book Awards.

While the calendar hasn't yet changed, fall migration has begun.

As temperatures begin to drop, migratory birds — like sandhill cranes, plovers and summer warblers — head south, making their way to warmer climates before winter rolls in.

According to Melissa Mayntz, an avid birder originally from Petoskey, some birds began their migration weeks ago and other species are just getting ready.