The Marathon Flyers: The Craziest Migratory Birds
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In the United States, Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September.
For most people, it signals a long weekend and the unofficial end of summer.
But at its heart, this holiday was created to recognize the contributions and achievements of American workers to the society.
Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century, during a time when American workers were pushing for better conditions.
In that time, factories often demanded long hours, low pay, and unsafe environments, and the labor movement began calling for fairer treatment.
The first Labor Day parade took place in New York City in 1882, organized by labor unions to honor workers and demonstrate their strength. The idea spread quickly, and by 1894, Congress officially made Labor Day a national holiday.
Since then, the meaning of the holiday has broadened. While it still honors the contributions of workers, it has also become a moment to pause, rest and celebrate the balance between work and life. Families gather for picnics, communities host parades, and many see it as the last long weekend before fall routines return.
Over the years, the Labor Day has become associated with cookouts, parades, and last-chance summer getaways. Stores advertise big sales, highways fill with travelers, and parks overflow with families. Yet, for those who prefer a quieter way to mark the occasion, there’s another option—Backyard Birdwatching.
Picture this: instead of rushing to beat traffic, you step outside into your own backyard. A mug of coffee warms your hands, the early light filters through the trees, and a chorus of birds greets the morning.
Birdwatching at home is simple, calming, and surprisingly rewarding. It offers a chance to pause, notice the details of the world around you, and truly embrace the spirit of taking a break.
Birdwatching fits beautifully into that balance. It’s quiet, unhurried, and free from the usual bustle of parades, barbecues, or holiday sales. Taking time to notice the natural world offers a simple way to slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Unlike many hobbies, birdwatching doesn’t require expensive gear or complicated preparation. A chair on the porch, a patch of grass in the backyard, or even an open window can serve as your starting point. Binoculars, notebooks, or birding apps can add to the experience, but the real reward comes from simply observing.
A few small changes can make your space more inviting to birds:
While Labor Day marks the end of summer for people, it also falls right at the start of the fall migration season for many birds. Millions of species—warblers, orioles, swallows—are already making their way south by early September. So, when you glance up at the sky during the holiday weekend, you may actually be watching travelers on a much longer journey.
Did you know that birdwatching is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in America? Estimates suggest over 45 million Americans take part in some form of birding each year. That means, on Labor Day, you’re far from alone if you decide to swap the barbecue for binoculars.
Interestingly, labor unions that fought for workers’ rights in the 19th century also supported early conservation efforts. Many believed that access to parks and natural spaces was essential for a balanced life. In a way, spending Labor Day outdoors continues that tradition of valuing both work and well-being
Some families have even created their own quirky Labor Day bird rituals—like counting how many robins appear in the yard, or listening for the first morning dove call before breakfast. These small customs may not be official, but they add a personal touch to the holiday.
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