Lots of Migrants Leave on a Dangerous Trip

Checking radar images this morning, it appears that large numbers of birds are making the jump across the Gulf of Mexico after Hurricane Michael moved north.

This image from 8:07 CDT shows large concentrations of what are assumed to be birds moving south from the gulf coast. Behind the Hurricane Michael system there are strong southerly winds.

This is a wind field image showing wind moving straight out of the north and over the gulf. Migrants leaving in these conditions should have a real advantage making the jump. It is quite interesting to be able to see what is physically happening in the atmosphere and relate this to the movement of birds. Birders along the coast might be in for a big show today as flocks move out.