Archive for September, 2007

Bird Migration In the Fall Can Provide New Visitors

Thursday, September 20th, 2007

White-Breasted Nuthatch at bird feeder

White-Breasted Nuthatch at bird feeder by Kenn

Even though natural foods such as fruits and insects are abundant in the fall, this is also a season of great food demand.  Bird populations are at high levels due to their new crop of fledglings.  A protein rich diet of insects is important as most birds replace all of their feathers before migrating.  These migratory birds must also put on ample fat to power their long migrations.  Sunflower seed and Nyjer seed are both oil-rich seeds that will help birds increase their body fat.  Also by feeding birds in early fall you may have a better chance of seeing fall migrants. (more…)

Should I Feed Wild Birds Year Round?

Friday, September 14th, 2007

Downy Woodpecker at nut feeder

Photo of Downy Woodpecker at feeder by Old Pirate from NC

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approximately 54 million residents of the United States feed wild birds at backyard feeders. This is important due to the fact that our environment has changed drastically over the last fifty years. Not only do our wild birds have to deal with loss of habitat, they must also compete with birds like starlings and house sparrows that are not native to North America. (more…)