Why Do Birds Migrate?

During the cold winter months, many birds simply can't find enough food to survive in Northern habitats. Insect-eating birds, and some that rely on certain berries or seeds, will head to warmer climates where food is always plentiful.

So why don't birds that live in the warmer climates just stay there all year?

In summer, those same Northern areas offer an abundance of plant and insect food for birds. Remember, birds forage during the daytime and rest when it is dark. Breeding birds take advantage of the longer daylight hours of temperate zones to feed, and to gather food for their hatchlings.