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Crowded Thistle Feeders?
With tons of Goldfinches out and about now, thistle feeders are likely to be a very busy spot in your yard. Because Goldfinches are one of the latest breeding/nesting birds, many juveniles are now crowding thistle feeders and learning to eat on their own. One of the favorite songbirds who will winter-over if thistle (or nyjer) is offered on a consistent basis, Goldfinches will grace your garden all year. A heated birdbath is also another major attraction for these sweet birds to stick around.With one of their two upcoming seasonal molts, vibrant yellow plumage will soon give way to a more olive-drab one. But as spring once again approaches, the electric yellow feathers will be seen through late summer and early fall.
The use of Thistle Socks or Thistle bags will help to alleviate crowds at your regular thistle feeders, and ensure that all babies get to eat. Fairly inexpensive and available from small to large, these mesh stockings provide an “all-over” eating area for finches and other birds who prefer thistle seed.
Cardinals are also molting right now, and although they might look a bit sickly…rest assured it’s just the process of shedding old worn feathers for vibrant new ones.
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When Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders Quit
Around my yard there are enough squirrels for a football game. Although I do feed them, every single bird feeder and birdhouse is protected by a baffle. Whether hanging, or pole mounted, the baffles pretty much ensure these are squirrel proof bird feeders.The feeder set up shown at left has run into a small problem this season. There is a butterfly bush behind it that has grown twice it’s size from last year. Now my little crafty squirrels have figured out how to shimmey on out to the end of the thicker branches and leap to the feeders.
It’s pretty funny watching them, but not so funny having to fill the feeders every single day. So in this case, the squirrel proof bird feeders have quit being squirrel-proof due to landscaping growth.
The best plan? Relocate this pole to a spot where squirrels can not launch from any landscaping!
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Don’t Touch That Window Hummingbird Feeder!
Wild bird migrations are one of those pretty amazing feats of nature. Instinct is so keen, it’s what keeps birds alive. Hummingbirds don’t begin their long journey just because the temperatures start to drop. It is the dwindling hours of daylight that signals them it’s time to go.Many Ruby Throats are mobbing feeders right now, furiously drinking as much as they can in preparation for the long trip to South and Central America. How these tiny birds manage to fly so far is beyond me? The other pretty amazing thing is that hummingbirds practice site fidelity. Which means if they find a friendly yard with food, shelter and moving water, you can bet they’ll be back next season.
The show at our window hummingbird feeder right now is spectacular! There’s hardly a moment throughout the day where it’s not occupied. Constant feeding (and fighting) has been going on for a about two weeks. If you have nectar feeders, especially a window hummingbird feeder, be sure to keep it filled with fresh nectar for the next few weeks. Even if you think your hummers have left for the season, many that are traveling from further north of you are likely to stop by and fuel up! Be on the lookout for the occasional flying jewel, your efforts will be well rewarded.
Birding Tips, Information & News
