November  white-crowned sparrow
By November summer birds are gone and winter residents are back. Look for your winter sparrows like juncos and white-crowns. Your feeding station activity will increase as birds utilize all the feeding areas as we described in October's calendar. Now is the time to put out your NyjerŽ feeders for winter goldfinches and chickadees.
Activity is increasing. Consistently offer seed and suet to attract the maximum number of species
ˇ Continue to provide fresh water
ˇ Squirrels are active; take precautions
ˇ Watch for winter sparrows: white-crowned sparrow, chipping sparrow, and juncos.
ˇ Put up additional NyjerŽ feeders for winter finches and Pine Siskin |
 Ask Steve
Q. Can I feed wild birds peanut butter?
A. Yes. Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and energy for birds, particularly during cold weather months. You can make it easier for you and for the birds if you mix the peanut butter with coarse corn meal or sunflower chips. These act as binding agents and make the mixture more doughlike. Press the mixture into a pine cone, then roll the pine cone in Perfect Patio, and hang it from a nearby tree. Keep in mind that our furry friends, the squirrels, will find this treat as irresistible as the birds do, so don't be surprised to see them make off with your peanut-butter-filled pine cones.
Q. My feeder has metal perches. I'm concerned that the birds' feet could stick to the freezing metal perches when really cold weather hits.
A. This is a common concern, based on stories that have been circulated for so long that they are accepted as fact. The idea that birds' feet could freeze to metal perches is probably based on the fact that human skin will stick to subfreezing metal. However, birds' feet-unlike human skin-do not contain sweat glands. Their feet have no moisture and are perfectly dry. Take a look around this winter-you'll notice birds safely perching on wire fences even during the coldest temperatures. |
eagle photo by Wendy Stuart