The annual spring migration is under way, with millions of birds winging their way back north after spending the winter in Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Head to these Trustees properties (or your own favorites) for a first look at a season-long wave of winged travelers:

Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield – Where the Housatonic River flows lazily along the east side of the Cobble, look for a bald eagle in a pine tree or wafting overhead, while Pintail and Wood duck test the waters. Listen for the whistle of red-winged blackbirds and for the eye-pleasing sight of bluebirds in a field.

Peaked Mountain, Monson – At more than 1,200 feet, Peaked is attractive to a variety of soaring birds, including hawks and turkey vultures. Look for kestrels and merlins as they make their way northward. From the summit, turn your gaze east to see a beaver pond where great blue herons will be nesting.

North Common Meadow, Petersham – Introduce the next generation of birders to this appealing blend of field and pond habitat situated close to Petersham’s village green. Tree swallows dip and dive as they pluck insects from the air while bluebirds drop from branches into deepening grasses. Kestrels hover overhead on fiercely flapping wings.

World’s End, Hingham – Early migrants are already making homes at this popular South Shore peninsula. Mallards patrol the salt pond and ice pond, while bluebirds and red-winged blackbirds settle in along the maple-lined allées. Also keep an eye out for cedar waxwings and kestrels.

Crane Beach, Ipswich – Wander along this scenic, four-mile barrier beach and welcome returning ducks, loons, and shorebirds. Look for dunlins to be skittering along the surf line and across tidal flats. Endangered piping plovers are also returning, so take extra care to avoid them.