Making Sense of Unusual Findings Asking Questions, Using Resources Questions to ask about . . . Resources Observers and methods Is the observer experienced or is he or she a novice? How much does the observer know about the species? Does he or she know how to identify it? Which comments from observers or experts make me think this is an accurate (or inaccurate report)? Are there more observers in some areas than others? How could that affect the data/maps? What other questions do I have for the observer? Contact observers: Go to the hummingbird sightings database or go to one of the Live Maps and click the "i" tool. In an observer's Field notes, you’ll find an e-mail link. The animal’s behavior and physical traits Is the reported behavior typical? If not, how does it vary? Can I infer from the animal’s appearance or behavior that it is 1) a migrant or 2) a resident in the area? What evidence can I find in the report or experts’ comments? How many miles per day does the species usually travel? What factors could explain the difference (e.g., wind)? Read what "experts" say: * FAQs * News Updates The current migration How many miles away was the nearest individual (group) seen this season? What was its latitude? What else do the maps “tell” me about migration patterns? Look at current hummingbird migration maps: * Rufous map * Ruby-throated map Past migrations Has this species ever been spotted so far ____ (north, west, inland) this early in the year? Look at past seasons' maps: * Rubythroat maps * Rufous maps Weather and climate Could a change in weather or longer-term climate explain the unusual sighting? How? How did this year’s weather patterns compare to last year’s? To previous years’ patterns? Look at and compare weather maps: * Departure from normal temperatures * Winds * Other weather links Habitat Are the species’ food sources – such as milkweed plants and nectar – available where it was spotted? Are plants or insects along the migration trail ahead of or behind schedule? Could human actions affect the habitat and migration (e.g., development or deforestation)? How? * See above * Plant hardiness zones   This Season Teachers Kids Orientation Registration Search Copyright 1997-2009 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Contact us.