Getting ready to go
A bird’s body tells it exactly when to migrate. Each year, at the same time, glands in its body release special chemicals – called hormones – into its system. The hormones also trigger a feeding frenzy. The bird spends every minute of daylight stuffing itself with food, stocking up for the long journey ahead. Its body has a special ability to turn food quickly into fat. The secret of successful migration is timing. If birds leave too early, they may run out of energy before finishing their journey. If they leave too late, they may run into bad weather along the way. |
