To fly or not to fly depending on winds: shorebird migration in different seasonal wind regimes

► We analysed under which wind conditions shorebirds depart on migratory flights. ► We compared departure behaviour in contrasting wind regimes during spring and autumn. ► The shorebirds dramatically changed threshold of wind for departure between seasons. ► Choosiness in relation to available winds was similar during the two seasons. ► Migratory birds show adaptive flexibility in responses to different wind regimes.