Season: May

Explore late spring wildlife activity: birth of young mammals, songbird nesting, and prime scouting time for summer and fall hunting.

May — Peak of Spring Activity in North America

Mammals and Molting

By May, many mammals complete or are well into their spring molt. In northern regions, some species wrap up their breeding season, while most are busy raising their young. Hibernating mammals in the far north are emerging from winter dormancy, becoming increasingly active as temperatures rise.

Birds: Migration, Nesting, and Brood Rearing

May marks the peak of spring migration for many bird species in North America. Waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds reach their breeding grounds, with nesting activity intensifying throughout the month. In southern and mid-latitude regions, many species begin to hatch and rear their chicks.

• Waterfowl
  Wood ducks and mallards are actively nesting, with females incubating eggs and broods beginning to hatch by mid to late May. Blue-winged teal begin their incubation period around mid-May, with ducklings hatching near the end of the month.

• Shorebirds and Waders
  Various sandpipers and plovers pass through or settle in northern wetlands. Spotted sandpipers and greater yellowlegs engage in courtship displays and territory establishment.

• Songbirds
  Red-winged blackbirds and common grackles defend territories and build nests. American robins continue multiple broods. Mourning doves begin nesting in southern areas, and by mid-May, many fledglings are starting to leave nests.

Migration Highlights and Regional Variations

• The northern boreal and tundra zones see an influx of breeding birds such as sandhill cranes and certain waterfowl species. In more temperate zones, migrant populations start to dwindle as birds settle in to breed.

• In the southwestern United States, some species may finish egg laying and start incubation earlier, due to warmer climates. In contrast, northern regions are still experiencing active migration and the start of nesting later in the month.

• Coastal and wetland areas along the Pacific Flyway and Atlantic Flyway see heavy migration traffic, with birdwatchers noting the arrival of species like the black scoter and greater scaup.

Mammals and Nesting Challenges

• Coyotes and foxes continue raising their young. The increased activity of mammals caring for offspring can lead to more human-wildlife encounters, especially near suburban or agricultural areas.

• Sudden weather changes, such as late spring storms or cold snaps, may threaten nests and young animals, particularly in northern breeding areas.

May at a Glance

Game Species Found in Spring