I’M FOR THE BIRDS
Our Boulevard Area is blessed. We are close to the mountains, surrounded by trees, gardens and streams — all of which attract an abundance of birds. I have been feeding the birds for many years and, in today’s restrictive world, birds are ideal visitors. They don’t want to come in, they don’t intend a long visit and they prefer to keep their distance. And what wonderful personalities they each have!
CROWS – They are, I think, bullies at heart. But their ability to mimic a cat makes me laugh! Every Spring there is one “Spoiled Brat” chick who refuses to learn how to feed himself. He sits on a branch and caws incessantly until his Mom gives up, throws up her wings and gives him seed.
RING-NECKED DOVES – A more gentle, peaceful bird you will never find. A pair always come together, perch together and feed together. Early morning and late evening I hear them quietly cooing in a nearby tree.
CHICKADEES and SPARROWS – At the feeders all day long. They don’t like to share and they peck at any bird who tries to move in. But they are full of life and pick me up on a dull day.
BLUE JAYS – 6 come regularly. I cling to the belief that a Blue Bird brings happiness.
HUMMING BIRDS – Bundles of speed and energy. Their feeder hangs close to my kitchen window and they seem to pause to look in at me before settling in for a feed. You can buy finger feeders for Hummers, but I doubt I could sit still long enough to entice them.
ROBINS – A flock of Robins has recently arrived and is raiding my neighbour’s holly berries. Usually this results in having a flock of drunken Robins unable to fly in a straight line. Time will tell.
A SPECTRE SPARROW appeared in November. He is all white with two irregular stripes on his head and tail. He could be a Golden Crowned Sparrow but he has so much white on him. If that is what he is, Mother Nature sure goofed up his camouflage!
Then there are the TOWHEES. GROSBEAKS, NUTHATCHES, WOODPECKERS, FLICKERS, JUNCOS and THRUSHES – all of whom add color, energy and interest to my quiet days.
Yes, I’m definitely FOR THE BIRDS !!!!!!
Joan Peters