JEKYLL ISLAND (AP) _ Prime birding season is under way on Georgia's coast as fall begins and birds start flying south.

Hundreds of species of shorebirds will pass through the region on their way to more tropical temperatures.

In Georgia's Golden Isles, some 370 species of birds can be seen for viewing, especially on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.

Brad Winn is program manager of the Nongame Conservation Section of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. He says shorebirds are top picks for spotting. Songbirds also will be plentiful.

Guides will be available to help spot birds during the Colonial Coast Birding and Nature Festival Oct. 9-13 on Jekyll Island.