Visible Migration Data

Visible Migration Studies in Sheffield.

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Visible Migration by Balloon - An aerial view of Redmires.

After years of Visible Migration counting [from the ground of course] Keith Clarkson and the small band of Sheffield VisMig enthusiasts wanted to compare the numbers of birds moving at low level to those moving out of sight, at higher levels. We knew that on a good day the number of migrants moving at low level could be in the tens of thousands. But were we seeing the full movement. Were there just as many, or more, moving at higher levels, out of sight to land-based counters. To this end, Keith was able to persuade the Nationwide Building Society into loaning their sponsored hot-air balloon on 28th-30th September 1987. Would there be any difference?
Well .... on the three days the balloon was used, the number of birds counted by land-based observers were, unfortunately, quite low. However, from the balloon very few were seen at all, indicating that the birds were more than likely following habitat and/or geographical features and not being totally influenced by climatic conditions.

"Visible Migration Through the Peak District", an article by Richard Hill, gives further detail about migration watching.

Visible Migration Index Page | SBSG Home |