Middle O' Winter Birds

While some areas of the country are lucky enough to enjoy mild or temperate temperatures during the winter months, most of us are experiencing some cold weather.  Here in the East, we have been graced with some Spring-like days so the plants are getting confused and some trees, bushes and bulbs are emerging early from their winter hibernation. So, many people wonder if the birds get confused with the warm days and if they are encouraged to migrate early.  Actually, migrations are based on length of day, so while we are enjoying those warm days, so are the wintering birds. Birds like the White-throated Sparrow, Dark-eyed Juncos, Carolina Wrens and some woodpeckers are enjoying those warm days just like we are.  In fact, they become extra active, so make sure to keep those feeders full.  On those warm days where it feels nice to be outside filling them, the birds are stocking up, trying to eat as much as possible to prepare for more cold days.  The birds are a good barometer, too, as they get busy right before inclement weather, so they can be an indicator of impending storms, rain or snow.  Here the wrens are singing in the morning, the woodpeckers are visiting the feeders and the bluebirds are flocking together in search of food.  Using shelled sunflower seeds, sometimes called sunflower hearts or kernels can provide beneficial protein for all sorts of birds, especially those thrushes who can't crack seeds, like the bluebirds.  It also eliminates the shell mess that piles up under the feeder and causes bacteria and mold build-up.  Suet is another good option when you find a suet feeder everyone likes that's also squirrel-proof. I have yet to find a raccoon-proof suet feeder, but I'm still searching.  Don't forget to provide clean water for the birds, too.  Even when it rains or snows, the birds still visit bird baths they've become accustomed to visiting in the summer.  Contrary to popular belief, they don't get their water from streams and rivers or lakes, but from puddles and bird baths.  

If you're a true snow bird and have escaped to warmer climates, then good for you!  Enjoy your respite from the cold.  We just returned from Palau in Micronesia, where I took some underwater photographs while diving there.  I have added them to the underwater gallery on my zenfolio website for your viewing pleasure.  Remember that when ordering any photos or photo products, they will not come printed with the word "PROOF", but if you order them with the watermark with my name, they will have that printed on them.  As always you can contact me for custom projects like calendars and photo books.  

Happy bird watching and don't forget to look up at the sky or listen to the bird songs.