Zugunruhe is the experience of migratory restlessness.

For birds, the urge to move cannot be contained. Its pull is so intense that a sandpiper’s organs atrophy to accommodate the demands of migration. A caged robin will launch itself northward again and again, hammering against glass walls even if it has no view of the outdoors. There’s no mistaking the signs. Wings fluttering, sleeplessness, disruption of normal activities.

Are you experiencing Zugunruhe?

If you would like to follow Harriett this fall and winter, go to https://ospreytaleteller.com and click on Follow (if you have not already). This will send you the link every time something new is added.