The Black-throated Blue Warbler (Setophaga caerulescens), a visually striking migratory songbird, predominantly breeds in the eastern regions of North America and winters in the Caribbean. This species engages in a remarkable migratory journey at night, usually east of the Mississippi River and often in small groups, but not without occasional deviations from the expected route. These instances are termed “vagrancy.”

Songbird migration involves a sophisticated navigational system in which the Black-throated Blue Warbler relies on celestial cues, geomagnetic information, and environmental landmarks. Nevertheless, factors such as adverse weather conditions, artificial light pollution, and anthropogenic landscape alterations can contribute to navigation errors, compelling these birds to stray from their intended migratory path.

Studies on bird migration have investigated the impact of weather conditions on avian navigation. Strong winds and inclement weather, especially for young, inexperienced individuals, can disrupt the bird’s ability to adhere to its intended migratory route (Alerstam, 2006).