As winter turns to spring and the weather warms in the Tri-Cities, it is the time of year to watch for trampoline migration.
Often, trampoline migration is heralded first by the migration of tumbleweeds. The tumbleweeds pile up on roadways, attempting to band together in a large herd, presumably plotting world domination. When the tumbleweeds form this large, stationary herd, the specially equipped tumbleweed plows are deployed to disperse them.
Following the tumbleweed migration is the movement of smaller flocks of patio furniture. You’ll recognize them by their bright aluminum plumage and colorful cushions.
Trampoline flocks prefer heavier gusts to aid them as they seek to perch on rooftops and escape the lower elevations of back yards where they are more often seen.
Occasionally you’ll see trampolines migrating on the ground, taking advantage of their rounded anatomy to quickly cover several miles. These “Desert” trampolines move residence from backyards to vast deserts where they nest in a thicket of tumbleweeds. During their migration they develop a unique camouflage by contorting into strange, unrecognizable shapes and hunkering down in the weeds.
Unlike “True Migration”, trampoline species follow a one-way migration, as compared to the often north/south seasonal migration of other flying things — mainly birds. Trampoline migration is in response to changes in weather, typically brought about by high winds. There is some speculation that trampoline migration is also a response to heavy predation, as there are many Youtube videos of trampolines being attacked by children, and sometimes wild foxes.
If you get the opportunity to observe trampoline migration, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Never attempt to block the migration of a trampoline. These normally benign back-yard pets become extremely aggressive during migration.
- Observe from a distance. Trampolines rely heavily on winds to determine their path – any change in wind direction could place you directly in their migration path.
- Do not attempt to rehome or capture a migrating trampoline. Until their migration activity is complete, trampolines will continue to move, potentially causing harm.
- If you have or plan to have a trampoline, inform yourself of the migration habits of trampolines in your area and seek to secure them in a safe manner.
Meanwhile, enjoy the weather here in beautiful Tri-Cities, where the wind doesn’t blow, it sucks!
