tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15058301618143034362024-03-28T23:29:41.564-04:00Nature Notes Blogby Wild Birds Unlimited Barrie and Wild Birds Unlimited NewmarketWBU Barriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08551294206814862275noreply@blogger.comBlogger315125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-2288064631726861042024-03-21T11:29:00.004-04:002024-03-21T11:29:48.928-04:00How to Get Started with Birdwatching <p>If you're new to the world of bird watching, or even just considering testing the waters, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. I mean, bird enthusiasts seem like they have all the knowledge and all the tools, we get it! Birding really atunes us with the natural world around us and invites wonder into the everyday. Prepare to be constantly noticing bird calls and appearances and searching for identification or marveling in the comfort of a familiar species. </p><p><br /></p><p><b>Here's a full guide of how (and where) to start. </b></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JbKgybUcASCjf0-7TVfx5dV7Cy-FdcD2s6w_lhZB3FwJcfdjbMCoZKblvofU5676xnPr_nTIHAtoW3X8h4qV1EKwJeeGE3fGkRkOOE_Eo55iHxfEbJbR_sfvjAFgQM__aKtEy7WOEY6xnmgOVDIea4C-3nro3x07sxdMDRiKPO4PpIb0TX-7254XACI/s5472/33037022021_43c95f8f56_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JbKgybUcASCjf0-7TVfx5dV7Cy-FdcD2s6w_lhZB3FwJcfdjbMCoZKblvofU5676xnPr_nTIHAtoW3X8h4qV1EKwJeeGE3fGkRkOOE_Eo55iHxfEbJbR_sfvjAFgQM__aKtEy7WOEY6xnmgOVDIea4C-3nro3x07sxdMDRiKPO4PpIb0TX-7254XACI/w640-h426/33037022021_43c95f8f56_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Jay. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. <u style="font-weight: bold;">Discover your own backyard first</u></h2><p></p><div>This absolutely applies even if your outdoor space is minimal! Even if you only have a balcony, do birds visit it? Are you able to identify them? Learning more common birds first can help build your confidence for when you're 'in the field'. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>PRO TIP:</b> Download the<a href="https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/"> Merlin app. </a>This is a free, global bird guide with sounds, maps, and more. It's extremely helpful. It can help you get familiar with bird songs. You can allow the app to listen to the bird you're hearing and identify it through sound, this can even be a way to confirm what you thought via sight. You can also use this feature to get a general idea of what birds you are commonly hearing in your area and start associating a visual with them. </div><div><br /></div><div>To continue to grow your skills close to home, get a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders">bird feeder</a>. Feeders that work great for 'firsts' are simple tube, hopper, or suet feeders. We offer these great '<a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/bird-feeder-gift-sets">Share the Joy'</a> boxes that come as a kit with everything you need to start. This is an easy way to keep a close eye on which species are visiting, and slowly grow your familiarity and identification skills with your backyard birds. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don't want a full-blown feeder just yet? Understandable. A lower entry cost is <a href="https://order.wbu.com/shop/bird-food/bark-butter">Bark Butter. </a>It is a smearable suet that you can put anywhere!! It has attracted over 150 species. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/window-feeders">Window feeders</a> are another simple yet exciting option. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn-5qEElCtBkiD1eo80GuNNezY7z3TEZB-8oh7evOV0z8U4sx1TCJGUkSfxVy0mqrSOUfDTJuniaybFtVWXiiLXVdDn34Cg9vsHI1F_vkGSdyZ4oLjY2m-34zHDEvv7_LLE-xFdRiuycihqmK8diCKej5e5V6B2Gd1AaTsBoSCnv6k4RM2P2U9hs0Fbc/s5472/51302770842_ab49a29af6_o%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn-5qEElCtBkiD1eo80GuNNezY7z3TEZB-8oh7evOV0z8U4sx1TCJGUkSfxVy0mqrSOUfDTJuniaybFtVWXiiLXVdDn34Cg9vsHI1F_vkGSdyZ4oLjY2m-34zHDEvv7_LLE-xFdRiuycihqmK8diCKej5e5V6B2Gd1AaTsBoSCnv6k4RM2P2U9hs0Fbc/w640-h426/51302770842_ab49a29af6_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal at Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b><u>2. Join a local Facebook group </u></b></h2><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>These groups are a great way to familiarize yourself with birds that are being regularly seen in your area, and people tend to be really helpful with identification if you ever get stuck or want a second opinion. Our group, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/OntarioBirds/">Ontario Birds by WBU Barrie and WBU Newmarket </a> is a great space if you're in Ontario. People share sightings from across Ontario and you can learn a lot just from scrolling the feed. This can even help you see where other people are birding, for many it's their own yards as well but there are also many hot spots. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b><u>3. Get a pair of <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/poles-baffles-hobby-products/optics">binoculars</a> </u></b></h2><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>They don't have to be the most expensive pair to start, but this is going to be key for being able to see birds at a distance. For birds, many species can look quite similar from a distance. This will help you distinguish key features and behaviour, which can both be really important factors in identifying a bird. </div><div>If you see a group of birds on the ground, for example, you may be surprised upon zooming in that there are several different species present. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Welcome to the wonderful world of birding, you're going to have so much fun! </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Warmly, </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Heather</i></div><p></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-13649341382465939132024-02-27T14:00:00.000-05:002024-02-28T10:26:45.792-05:00Why We Love Opossums - and You Should Too! <p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">Opossums, sometimes referred to as "possums" are a very unique animal. Visually, they are very unlike other wildlife we are accustomed to seeing around. They are also the only marsupial native to North America. This means that they carry their young in a pouch, once the young are larger they actually move onto the back of their mother where she will carry them around until they are large enough to be independent. Even more interestingly, they are relatively nomadic. Opossums do not tend to occupy territories or den or nest in locations, but rather are usually just </span><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">passing through. </i></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"></span><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div>Opossums have been getting the butt end of the rumour mill for years. Often regarded as dangerous and disease filled they are nothing if not the opposite. They are the only marsupial in North America! When threatened they actually "play 'possum" </span><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">where they roll onto their side, go stiff, drool and emit a foul smell, making their best attempt at looking dead so that they will be left alone by potential predators (including humans). </span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">As it turns out, opossums can digest nearly anything, including bones, effectively cleaning up our urban areas. They are seemingly immune to many things that <g class="gr_ gr_7280 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear ContextualSpelling ins-del" data-gr-id="7280" id="7280"><g class="gr_ gr_93 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear ContextualSpelling ins-del" data-gr-id="93" id="93">ail</g></g> humans and other wildlife including pathogens from dead or decaying animals, snake venom and Lyme disease that can be contracted from tick bites. They actually eat ticks that land on them and a single opossum can eliminate up to 4,000 ticks per week from our landscapes! Now that is a valuable service. </span></span><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">Opossums seem very alien-like to us in so many ways, their appearance and behaviours are not something many feel comfortable around or used to. However, they help us in ways that so many people are unaware of, so much so that The Nature of Things by David Suzuki made an entire episode on them titled "Natures Clean Up Crew", you can watch that </span><a href="https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/episodes/natures-cleanup-crew" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">here. </a><br style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="border: 0px; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">“Nothing prepares you for an opossum. They have a face only a mother could love. Really, they are such a weird looking animal”</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"> — Suzanne MacDonald, psychologist and biologist at York University </span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Contrary to popular opinion, opossums do not </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">hibernate</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;"> --- but they also were not made to survive Canadian </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">winters</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">. They are native to the southern United States and have in many ways come here by accident - on trucks and shipments. </span></span></span>If you take a look at their bodies - their tails, ears and paws are completely exposed and therefore very susceptible to frostbite, much like ours or a pets would be. It only takes a few hours for frostbite to set in when we are in a deep freeze. When periods like this are extensive, more of them tend to show up in wildlife rehabilitation centres.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivsw65o3_KUQvW7lw1O4zqXNecuM_OX0STfUpgatR69VDj6nH4BAEktiZbDpUS4GNP0IRprBzurzK66lJhdut5ABJrfjfhU4UfLqYssu1AzJEuxjgiCsFK9JCXss4Qcyp1HSPWqDtDfE8X3FOZaPwdZPtMk-eZhv_s71M98ZPGtySv1Hoe2cYVzTAZ0o/s639/opp.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="639" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivsw65o3_KUQvW7lw1O4zqXNecuM_OX0STfUpgatR69VDj6nH4BAEktiZbDpUS4GNP0IRprBzurzK66lJhdut5ABJrfjfhU4UfLqYssu1AzJEuxjgiCsFK9JCXss4Qcyp1HSPWqDtDfE8X3FOZaPwdZPtMk-eZhv_s71M98ZPGtySv1Hoe2cYVzTAZ0o/w640-h426/opp.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opossum sheltering in a BBQ. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A way you can help? “If they’ve found a warm spot, consider leaving them be until the spring,” suggests the executive director at the <a href="https://www.torontowildlifecentre.com/" style="color: black; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: none;">Toronto Wildlife Centre</a>. “They won’t chew anything or cause damage, and in the spring, they’ll move out on their own.”</span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Often viewed as a nuisance, opossums are anything but. They are quiet, tend to fly under the radar, they are not dangerous and actually eliminate dangers from harming humans and other wildlife. They are so incredible and unique and offer a wide array of services for urban landscapes. </span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Send love to an opossum nearest you! </span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Warmly, </i></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 15.75px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Heather</i></span></span></span></div></div>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-90269136398451957902024-02-20T13:23:00.001-05:002024-02-20T13:23:14.691-05:005 High-Calorie Foods to Feed Wild Birds Year-Round<p>Depending on the species, a birds' caloric intake need can be as high as 10 000 calories in a single day - that's equivalent to a human consuming 155 000 calories! Because of their need for high calorie foods, it's important to keep these foods available to them year-round - here are 5 of our favourite high-calorie foods to offer the birds in your backyard.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCQeduaTpVrRnIBUK6sfV_Kv-spDFAasx4Z-j9hW0yEo_NHttxXwQYveJbJc-I8jHm4ypC1E5qWiCDQ9a-kkvOgfDXvmTFwtH9F7LZQDpH5-nxEfIHvBmjWZrhfLLqzWkdgTuR_xRQB-4pZ62LgQVsLUE3uLPK_kFR3ltOSv-WsfPb3dz-t88nqTCkhCo/s2048/49986451887_a0278212ce_5k.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCQeduaTpVrRnIBUK6sfV_Kv-spDFAasx4Z-j9hW0yEo_NHttxXwQYveJbJc-I8jHm4ypC1E5qWiCDQ9a-kkvOgfDXvmTFwtH9F7LZQDpH5-nxEfIHvBmjWZrhfLLqzWkdgTuR_xRQB-4pZ62LgQVsLUE3uLPK_kFR3ltOSv-WsfPb3dz-t88nqTCkhCo/w640-h426/49986451887_a0278212ce_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-bellied Woodpecker feeding on WBU products</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>1. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter" target="_blank">Bark Butter</a></b><br />Bark Butter is a highly nutritious, palatable, and spreadable suet created with the intention of attracting the shy and feeder-weary Brown Creeper. It is made of pure rendered beef suet, peanut butter, corn, and added calcium for an extra boost. This high-calorie food perfect for fueling up migrating species, and those who are putting on some winter weight to stick out the cold weather. Since it's easily spreadable, Bark Butter essentially turns your surroundings in to bird feeders. Grab your tub of Bark Butter & a fork, smear a generous amount on to a tree and crosshatch with fork prongs, and watch as the birds investigate and chow down. Keep a close eye on the Bark Butter patches in your yard, you may see some unique visitors such as Brown Creepers, warbler species, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, and more. Bonus: Bark Butter makes a great "first food" for young birds during nesting season!<br /><br /></p><p><b>2. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/suet-mealworms" target="_blank">Suet</a></b><br />Many backyard birders believe suet should only be offered in the winter, but it is actually a very important source of food for many returning and nesting species. High-quality, high-protein suet like our SuperSuet & Bark Butter are a great source of nutrition for migrating birds, and many species including Brown Thrashers, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and warbler species can be found re-fuelling on suet upon their return. For those worried about suet spoiling in the heat of the summer, we carry a variety of <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/suet-mealworms" target="_blank">No-Melt</a> options to ensure the birds stay healthy and happy. <br /><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXAOTdf0CPWaxVmqlGsAry0LspE2t2umer9Symw3aUU0onksbBJKyu9PS73mpppQkP_idRRggLMGO3fh6WxORfYYJuSLBKEmrFEcPPGg_MdRCstKT-n89ihFZkYFxX7soqIyUzDTxIDHIKnmm0NYPezN0PjxBNPIjOPthDkVR5OvXfYO4uDgXS_qkHycB/s2048/16000631717_ac120b3c88_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXAOTdf0CPWaxVmqlGsAry0LspE2t2umer9Symw3aUU0onksbBJKyu9PS73mpppQkP_idRRggLMGO3fh6WxORfYYJuSLBKEmrFEcPPGg_MdRCstKT-n89ihFZkYFxX7soqIyUzDTxIDHIKnmm0NYPezN0PjxBNPIjOPthDkVR5OvXfYO4uDgXS_qkHycB/w640-h428/16000631717_ac120b3c88_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Jays feeding on peanuts in the shell</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>3. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed" target="_blank">Peanuts</a></b><br />Depending on the species, a birds' caloric intake need can be as high as 10 000 calories in a single day - that's equivalent to a human consuming 155 000 calories! One of the best foods to offer birds to help them meet their caloric demands is peanuts. High calorie, high protein, and highly desired. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/02/all-about-peanuts-who-eats-them-how-to.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about peanuts & which birds you can attract with them.<br /><br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJvUszCCn13XRe1j6ylRoUoQTamMZRudePZYiC49aEHnQ-nDPvRGhNFoU6hWT9pWtHxYlt7-WOYKo9SM0kR65GseDgjcKXKUp2MtbOzwH-rLbygO4xw7EILrtCnRXY4w2fp6WPf1ZagWI4EK2D-sdVxg0vtLxYT1RugzgSmmOI2dN-jMEGgMzcMMaPMGk/s2048/28651229655_58421a474d_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJvUszCCn13XRe1j6ylRoUoQTamMZRudePZYiC49aEHnQ-nDPvRGhNFoU6hWT9pWtHxYlt7-WOYKo9SM0kR65GseDgjcKXKUp2MtbOzwH-rLbygO4xw7EILrtCnRXY4w2fp6WPf1ZagWI4EK2D-sdVxg0vtLxYT1RugzgSmmOI2dN-jMEGgMzcMMaPMGk/w640-h426/28651229655_58421a474d_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin with beak full of live mealworms</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b></p><p><b>4. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/suet-mealworms" target="_blank">Mealworms</a><br /></b>Mealworms are an attractive food source to offer to your backyard birds because they replicate an omnivorous or insectivorous bird's natural diet (particularly live mealworms). Out in the wild, these birds will peck in to the ground or in the trees to find insects to eat. During Spring migration and nesting season, it is extremely beneficial to offer mealworms to your backyard birds as it will not only help attract new species to your yard, it will also help busy parents who are expending a great amount of energy in search of food to feed to their demanding babies. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/mealworms-on-menu.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn all about feeding mealworms to your backyard birds. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMIZo9PBW01bPtkHRiHS9FIv6wsgdxk3xBvnZMCpEkrKn4zEpKejLKru0qfZF-urWnt0dRyEBik-_H0G7Nq4Qxs8Td3Pyg9_z1VIaWG53S_gvj_LmUzwoZB7Pn1Jac9GNQNHK_-VuUypW00OMatIY7YCi6NvRSx7PqeknfEZHII9Fwt12tcLdjaAqMcaw/s4898/50081466081_c6a95a2d51_5k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMIZo9PBW01bPtkHRiHS9FIv6wsgdxk3xBvnZMCpEkrKn4zEpKejLKru0qfZF-urWnt0dRyEBik-_H0G7Nq4Qxs8Td3Pyg9_z1VIaWG53S_gvj_LmUzwoZB7Pn1Jac9GNQNHK_-VuUypW00OMatIY7YCi6NvRSx7PqeknfEZHII9Fwt12tcLdjaAqMcaw/w640-h426/50081466081_c6a95a2d51_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Goldfinches & Purple Finch feeding on Sunflower Chips</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>5. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed" target="_blank">Sunflower Chips</a><br /></b>Hulled Sunflower (Sunflower Chips) is the birds’ favorite food but without the mess of shell debris. Get more birds for your bucks by offering sunflower seeds without their shells. No shells means no mess under your feeders, and easier feeding for the birds. Hulled sunflower seeds have a high oil content and provide birds with an extra kick of energy. Offering hulled sunflower is also cost efficient, because you're not paying for the shells that are not consumed. Our Hulled Sunflower is available in chips that can fit in a variety of feeders. Sunflower chips will attract the widest variety of species including Indigo Buntings, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Chickadees, Nuthatches, Cardinals, Finches, and so much more.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Happy trails!<br />- Shayna</b></p>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-29205670229536073042024-02-14T09:42:00.015-05:002024-02-15T09:55:03.519-05:00What do Robins Eat in the Winter? How to Help and What to Offer <p>It can be a little jarring to see a robin running around frozen ground. Although American Robins are regarded by many as 'the first sign of spring', people are often surprised to learn that <b><i>many do not migrate south for the winter.</i></b> Instead, they adapt to the shifting weather. We are all used to seeing robins eat worms throughout spring and summer, the next question we typically get is <b style="font-style: italic;">'what do robins eat in the winter?' - </b>now that the ground is frozen and this food source is completely unavailable. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlXNfFBvSMIfFoQUD4-f08H9lvaAmfLEE-fOkCVaJvPgGOroyIME01gLPq1GBeNbgRS7ClyrMO1Jo8WZ4JryXgsIG2zvt68VhMM5JmOPj489lUMVKh7A2d8kwNB-cw6hEIPZUCdeWiDN2w_jZcqac7E97RSJHDePVqPF7ZPVERKGTHtI40SrQ_q4cDzU/s5472/33335345532_1cc486e4a0_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlXNfFBvSMIfFoQUD4-f08H9lvaAmfLEE-fOkCVaJvPgGOroyIME01gLPq1GBeNbgRS7ClyrMO1Jo8WZ4JryXgsIG2zvt68VhMM5JmOPj489lUMVKh7A2d8kwNB-cw6hEIPZUCdeWiDN2w_jZcqac7E97RSJHDePVqPF7ZPVERKGTHtI40SrQ_q4cDzU/w640-h426/33335345532_1cc486e4a0_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wintering American Robin. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In short, robins shift their behaviour, including foraging and eating habits, to survive cold winters without access to worms hidden beneath frozen ground. To briefly learn a bit more about <i>why </i>robins may stay, here is an excerpt from our full blog on the topic, <b>Winter Robins: Why They Stay and How to Help Them</b>, which you can read in full <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2019/11/winter-robins.html">here. </a></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The wintering range of the American Robin is largely affected by weather and food supply. Most birds can survive frigid temperatures as long as they have a reliable source of food, and in this area our native fruit-bearing plants typically have a bounty available for robins to eat throughout the winter. Robins maintain a body temperature of about 104℉ no matter the temperature outside. <b>In the winter they generate body heat by shivering</b>, and maintain their warm temperature by fluffing their feathers which acts as a shield from blowing wind and snow. All of this temperature regulation takes a lot of energy, which they get from their food. Studies suggest that more robins over-winter here than we may realize, and <b>rather than migrating, they simply change their behaviour</b>. In the winter months robins are non-territorial and will gather in nomadic flocks to feast on berries, while in the spring the flocks will disband to seek out and claim suitable nesting territory. </i></span></span></p><p><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p>Due to their shift to surviving mostly on fruit as opposed to insects, providing native fruit bearing plants including chokecherries, mountain ash, or staghorn sumac in your yard is a huge help for overwintering robins. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPKHYb0BYHMsoEfrIlU79e4aTTmT1KMkVa31BjLKmJk927CQzaeHrTBRzTGL-PKBJU7xF92Ce8QqpuxXU0DDQ5ws78RjpypT-KJs5QgSIqQQx82wTHey83r8DC9ibU-IQGaPrOZmMpe1vRazu-_SNpu3Z3uoplVmHNsO7yeB-Xp18Fsu-LPHW0QTv/s640/24219870000_0ee9e7ac76_o%20(1).jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPKHYb0BYHMsoEfrIlU79e4aTTmT1KMkVa31BjLKmJk927CQzaeHrTBRzTGL-PKBJU7xF92Ce8QqpuxXU0DDQ5ws78RjpypT-KJs5QgSIqQQx82wTHey83r8DC9ibU-IQGaPrOZmMpe1vRazu-_SNpu3Z3uoplVmHNsO7yeB-Xp18Fsu-LPHW0QTv/w640-h426/24219870000_0ee9e7ac76_o%20(1).jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Robin at heated bird bath. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Additionally, you can provide:<br /><b style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></b></p><ul><li><b style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Live Mealworms:</b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">The perfect food to offer to a normally worm-eating bird. They pack a punch of protein and are high in calories, giving them extra energy to keep their bodies warm. You can offer mealworms in a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/specialty-feeders/universal-mealworm-dish">universal mealworm tray</a>, which works well with many of our feeders. You can also use a feeder like our</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/specialty-feeders/spiral-treattray-(green)" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Spiral Treat Tray</a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">, or even a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/window-feeder/treescape-window-feeder">Window Feeder</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> for close viewing opportunities. </span></li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">BirdBerry Jelly:</b> Our <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/nectar-jelly/birdberry-jelly">BirdBerry jelly</a> is specifically formulated to attract fruit-eating species and is well loved by Robins year-round. BirdBerry Jelly can be offered in a low dish, a window feeder, a cup feeder like our Spiral Treat Tray or APS Fruit Feeder Branch Perch.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRTLhn-t5yuR9ktzX8ubFv7VdOMTg7p-D1ubMKrqJ8YAaIFASjQU2aWT87NCCgQlxnUZRC9L7hOCIUeB92K8LDhcOtVep2Orw2g91CAPpBBF96joD5W_kkr0GzpLFM85_wLWv4ATNllUakvs0BoT2sw0i0GFH3E2qBaIhqcE0Ukpq1GW44qnbtCI0/s5472/33604673881_742c24b163_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRTLhn-t5yuR9ktzX8ubFv7VdOMTg7p-D1ubMKrqJ8YAaIFASjQU2aWT87NCCgQlxnUZRC9L7hOCIUeB92K8LDhcOtVep2Orw2g91CAPpBBF96joD5W_kkr0GzpLFM85_wLWv4ATNllUakvs0BoT2sw0i0GFH3E2qBaIhqcE0Ukpq1GW44qnbtCI0/w640-h426/33604673881_742c24b163_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Robin eating BirdBerry jelly in winter. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Both of the above items <i><b>can freeze in the winter.</b> </i><span>Birds will still eat frozen mealworms. For jelly, as temperatures drop, you can sub for dehydrated fruit like raisins instead or small berries such as blueberries. Feeding at the same time every day can help birds get on a schedule, as well as whistling or ringing a bell prior to each feeding can help get them accustomed.</span></span></div><ul><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bark Butter:</b> Like many other species, particularly those that may not regularly visit feeders, Robins love <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/bark-butter">Bark Butter</a>. Try spreading on tree trunks, lower to the ground where you may usually see a robin foraging. It's good to start early in the season to get them used to this too! Robins also enjoy <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/hot-pepper-bark-butter-bits">Bark Butter Bits</a>, or <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/bugs-bits">Bugs & Bits</a> which include dried mealworms. Try offering in a spiral tray feeder or a window feeder. </li><li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Suet:</b><span style="font-weight: inherit;"> High-quality suet is a great option. Robins will eat suet in the winter, opt for fruit and bug forward mixes such as our <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/seed-cylinders/bug-nut-berry-cylinder">Bug, Nut & Berry Cylinder. </a></span></li><li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Heated bird bath: </b>although this isn't food, open water is extremely important for all birds during winter, and can help attract robins to your yard. To learn more about heated bird baths, read our full blog on the topic <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/11/helping-birds-survive-winter-heated.html">here. </a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Hopefully this answered your burning questions about what robins eat in the winter! Try offering a variety of the above options and see if you attract any winter robins. <br /><br />As always - tag us in your photos we would love to see them. <br /><br /><br /><br /><i>Warmly, </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Heather</i></div><div><br /></div>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-81612939380913117472024-02-07T13:15:00.003-05:002024-02-07T13:15:16.713-05:00How Do Birds Survive the Cold?<p> Birds are small, light weight, balls of fluff with bare-skinned legs that appear to offer no protection from the cold, and they don't live in cozy nests or dens through the winter - so how exactly do they survive the cold? Birds have evolved and adapted over millions of years to withstand even the coldest of temperatures. By understanding how birds make it through the winter months, we can help boost their chances of seeing another warm, spring day. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQuLZ-UrhYWO_wFfN69rfh7eg_gWZ7FMTZb8uQz5ie3rutF5_Hx-8et-GySPeMEe2gt_kkO9fQ4Xk-ujd-SI3Irf6quNiIcAqYoEJ5d7OCFYEYNpBdx00wJaGZShAAwFEiQ0XMgxTFwazyoFHUcEq2LknmoGTDQUxWJEN7zMlPc32XgbrHjixupbIxbg=s3600" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQuLZ-UrhYWO_wFfN69rfh7eg_gWZ7FMTZb8uQz5ie3rutF5_Hx-8et-GySPeMEe2gt_kkO9fQ4Xk-ujd-SI3Irf6quNiIcAqYoEJ5d7OCFYEYNpBdx00wJaGZShAAwFEiQ0XMgxTFwazyoFHUcEq2LknmoGTDQUxWJEN7zMlPc32XgbrHjixupbIxbg=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal, female</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Body temperature, specialized feathers, and fat reserves<br /></b>Birds already have a bit of an advantage when it comes to keeping warm in the cold, as they have a very high metabolism rate, and in turn, a higher body temperature than humans. On average, a bird's body temperature sits at about 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celcius), whereas the average human body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celcius). But because birds have a higher metabolism, it also means that their caloric requirements are extremely high in relation to their body size. To help conserve energy and maintain body heat efficiently, birds have a few special physical qualities:<br /><br /></p><ul><li><b>Feathers & scales:</b> Certain feather types on birds' bodies aid in insulation, such as semiplumes which help add some insulation under the contour feathers, and down feathers which are fluffy feathers that lie under contour feathers with semiplumes, and are responsible for forming a thick layer of insulation. Some birds will also grow in extra layers of feathers during the molting process in the fall. In addition to insulating feathers, birds have small "scales" on their feet and legs that reduce heat loss, and are even able to control the temperature of their legs and feet by constricting blood flow. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Winter fat reserves: </b>As with many animals,<b> </b>birds will eat a little extra through the fall in order to build up an extra layer of fat. This thin fatty layer helps to add extra protection from the cold in the winter months, and also acts as backup energy for those long nights and days when the weather is just too extreme to go out and feed as much as is needed. </li></ul><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEienR9aO-VhKxIBonwZS_wZzVg8W6zGBD69Cohr0RgvyuNHLYs-8Z768kqmqaMU3fb2zT-2huJzRf1W1rat7WDdX2oQ8eapHVeClN1iJCWiLByor2ldABCX-NZBfhmkQ8F0GMJ3npWkfqM47a-Umb-99xHjK898Lo0fpS48qQfX1ePpqYvT0itxXk49DQ=s2048" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEienR9aO-VhKxIBonwZS_wZzVg8W6zGBD69Cohr0RgvyuNHLYs-8Z768kqmqaMU3fb2zT-2huJzRf1W1rat7WDdX2oQ8eapHVeClN1iJCWiLByor2ldABCX-NZBfhmkQ8F0GMJ3npWkfqM47a-Umb-99xHjK898Lo0fpS48qQfX1ePpqYvT0itxXk49DQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Robin, fluffed to keep warm</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b>Shivering, fluffing, and roosting</b><br />In addition to physical adaptations, birds have also developed behaviours that help them keep warm through cold weather. Some we are familiar with and take part in ourselves, such as sunning and shivering, but others are fairly unique to birds. <br /><br /><ul><li><b>Shivering:</b> This is a behvaiour that we have in common with birds, but shivering isn't just something that our body does involuntarily when we're cold. Shivering is the body's way of raising the metabolic rate to aid in generating more body heat. Because this requires more calories to perform, it is only a short term solution in extreme cold. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Fluffing:</b> Fluffing looks exactly as the name implies, birds fluff their feathers up giving them a "puffed" appearance. If you feed birds in your backyard you have likely observed this behaviour while birds are perched in trees or at your feeders on cold days. Fluffing helps keep birds warm by creating air pockets within the feathers that act as added insulation.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Roosting:</b> Many species will congregate in large groups when settling in for the night in the winter months, often in trees, shrubs, or man-made roosting boxes. Though most don't spend their days with one another, sticking together in these tight spaces overnight to conserve heat is what helps many birds survive. Even birds who don't roost communally are strategic in where they choose to sleep through the night, picking spots that hold residual heat from sunlight through the day.</li></ul></div><div><b><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-E5aistYUe4mr7-9jeVb0vEdFZYw6MEM-y4bM8Wn7fea41UCgUayncDi28zgwKLj8cajooAeOAP6yl_AKEmrwEfTXODBZfYdHAOUgVrPh751YeruL19s006bLnTwavgiPNqU4dunFFwvSvU1mdwUNFqeYapivgUKFttJfdU3hwAmG_bkTEWFk_HxQtQ=s2048" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-E5aistYUe4mr7-9jeVb0vEdFZYw6MEM-y4bM8Wn7fea41UCgUayncDi28zgwKLj8cajooAeOAP6yl_AKEmrwEfTXODBZfYdHAOUgVrPh751YeruL19s006bLnTwavgiPNqU4dunFFwvSvU1mdwUNFqeYapivgUKFttJfdU3hwAmG_bkTEWFk_HxQtQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-bellied Woodpecker feeding on high-calorie suet</td></tr></tbody></table></b><br /><b>How to help birds through the winter<br /></b><ul><li><b>Offer seasonally savvy foods & keep the feeders full: </b>Seasonally savvy bird feeding can not only help you attract a wider variety of species to your yard, but can actually provide great health benefits to the birds. In the winter, many birds' diets switches from a mostly insectivorous diet, to an omnivorous one that consists of seeds from conifers, fruits including cedar berries, sumac, mountain ash, and more, as well as any foods (including insects) that they cached before winter. Seasonally savvy winter foods include ones that are high in calories, fats, and protein, to give birds the fuel they need to get them through the long, cold nights and days. Some of these foods include suet like <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food" target="_blank">SuperSuet</a>, <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food" target="_blank">Bark Butter</a>, mealworms, and caching foods like seeds and tree nuts found in our <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food" target="_blank">Winter SuperBlend</a> that birds can store throughout their ranges to eat at a later time. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Install a heated bird bath:</b> In winter, birds rely on snow consumption and naturally open sources of water for hydration. Open water is harder to come by when the temperature gets below freezing, and snow takes a lot energy to convert to water, so having a reliable source of drinking water available can mean the difference between life or death for some birds when the weather gets particularly intolerable. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-baths-&-houses/bird-baths-&-water" target="_blank">Heated bird baths</a> can be purchased as a single unit and are simple to attach to a pole system, deck railing, or on stand alone poles, and are kept just above freezing by an internal heater that is not exposed to the birds. Alternatively, heaters are available to add to existing baths that are large enough to accommodate them. Either are great options to ensure your backyard birds have a supply of fresh water all winter long. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Offer protection from the cold:</b> Winter is pretty, but it isn't always friendly to us or the birds. During inclement weather birds are more likely to seek out food & areas that are well-sheltered. To help with this you can add weather domes above your feeders which act as shields from rain, snow, freezing rain, and wind. Domes will not only help the birds to feel safe & secure, but they can also help keep your offerings dry which cuts down on seed spoilage. Having an abundance of bird-friendly habitat is also of the utmost importance during the winter. This can be in the form of native trees & shrubs growing around your yard, man-made brush piles of twigs & branches, or even upcycled Christmas trees. Once the holidays are over and your Christmas tree is no longer needed, just toss it in the yard for the birds to enjoy. </li></ul><div><br />Now that you know how birds keep warm, check out our previous blog all about <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2021/07/how-birds-beat-heat.html" target="_blank">how birds beat the heat</a>!</div><br /><b><br />Happy trails!<br />- Shayna</b><br /></div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-52765570987107622852024-01-31T00:00:00.002-05:002024-01-31T11:31:34.438-05:00What is Bark Butter and How Do You Use It?<p><b style="font-family: inherit;">Bark Butter </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">is well known for its ability to attract a massive variety of birds - over 150 species to date. It was first designed with the idea of attracting Brown Creepers, a species that typically will not visit feeders. It is extremely successful at doing so. Check out this Brown Creeper visiting Bark Butter, both smeared on bark and a feeder. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEieTDFRNLANg66kAWoOFLdxQDzlPYrgrvBHRrZWfyCjHi2Jaz0OU-McberyzvKBUy4EUNfU8Wyz270BhqamJomE0ciiOouNXcQEfCRbfTxRfZD9soBBJ2SFZAOtzp1gnxv9T513v1KYyMOu9O2-iulPxswcCFq4b32oRQkeo63LDRMrJIiOfAZJGP6-=w426-h640" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="426" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption">Brown Creeper eating BarkButter smeared on bark. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYHRBXG4QD6Uu3R-wCBKqxo6LjMGpAb2xUd1DqFsHCynaBt0IGVV9I61MAoB_vJ4eUzVLpYt7G0EfVC3pUCz7M26INlJ0Gy8GGTIw3s1jpxsu0e1Z5A8hFalmkrTPskZMUR5xzDWrhp9Ic0xwAwKPlLTjAaqQwW3ACEjjlIBrm91uESz3J2UFr_UZr=s5472" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYHRBXG4QD6Uu3R-wCBKqxo6LjMGpAb2xUd1DqFsHCynaBt0IGVV9I61MAoB_vJ4eUzVLpYt7G0EfVC3pUCz7M26INlJ0Gy8GGTIw3s1jpxsu0e1Z5A8hFalmkrTPskZMUR5xzDWrhp9Ic0xwAwKPlLTjAaqQwW3ACEjjlIBrm91uESz3J2UFr_UZr=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Creeper eating at Suet Cylinder Log Feeder, smeared with Bark Butter. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h2><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>What is Bark Butter?</u></b></span></h2><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is suet in spreadable form, allowing you to turn anything and everything into a Bark Butter feeding station. Whether you are smearing right onto tree bark, or the side of one of our feeders made for it, it helps attract birds that are not typically feeder birds.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is made from a mixture of suet, peanut butter and corn and works well year round. Because of the calcium content, it supports egg development and growth during nesting season - many birds will feed it to their young. </span></p><h2><u><b><br /></b></u></h2><h2><u><b>Bark Butter Shapes</b></u></h2><div><u><b><br /></b></u></div><div><u><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfXuw-dMlOheVlkbF_LmA3l1ngOU-G3RkQV9T62YhZx46PkRh4PhXeD4SwCY0iscw1dCD19RRfLkZxRwWJBJBqN__Ji1RQW_uvQlhrExLnHzRvrMygDOYAYjSwoBUolisHPMR_JLaQHYdfKJTT_Rkx75W1wOsHKbPCenPoMHuA6ZULL2DCnCRUUN5G=s863" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="863" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfXuw-dMlOheVlkbF_LmA3l1ngOU-G3RkQV9T62YhZx46PkRh4PhXeD4SwCY0iscw1dCD19RRfLkZxRwWJBJBqN__Ji1RQW_uvQlhrExLnHzRvrMygDOYAYjSwoBUolisHPMR_JLaQHYdfKJTT_Rkx75W1wOsHKbPCenPoMHuA6ZULL2DCnCRUUN5G=w429-h640" width="429" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuffed Titmouse visiting Christmas tree shaped Bark Butter </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqloAgb0TTK2Gf-XmgWnDhms_jD2fZxmWODgC8PRimt_L7NkLjNeThPD4d_aLcS5XV3Fp1UlgOEN8IMTbYkM8OuI78pQbv4_L1thzm0ZzJtsLYFbsJkwgthjazAWpmNpEHrBDlEp22o1-DTpSPCpLmBzIWWrZOWypetrf4e-uipNZCTb0mMkL8V8bV=s863" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="863" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqloAgb0TTK2Gf-XmgWnDhms_jD2fZxmWODgC8PRimt_L7NkLjNeThPD4d_aLcS5XV3Fp1UlgOEN8IMTbYkM8OuI78pQbv4_L1thzm0ZzJtsLYFbsJkwgthjazAWpmNpEHrBDlEp22o1-DTpSPCpLmBzIWWrZOWypetrf4e-uipNZCTb0mMkL8V8bV=w429-h640" width="429" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-breasted nuthatch and Downy Woodpecker at star shaped Bark Butter. </td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b></u></div><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To create these fun and festive Bark Butter shapes, follow one of the following two methods:</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><ol><li style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>The cookie cutter method: </u></b>find a cookie cutter in the shape that you are trying to make, such as this Christmas tree. Hold the cutter directly on the bark, fill with BarkButter and use your fingers or a utensil to pack it onto the trunk, while still holding the cutter. Once you remove the cutter, you should be able to further push down the bark butter and add any (edible) decorations you would like such as peanuts or dried fruit. </span></li><li style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b>The freezer method: </b></u>You can either put the Bark Butter in the freezer for a while just to harden it up and help it keep it’s shape during transfer, then pack it into the cookie cutter and put the shape you've made onto tree. Alternatively, you can use wax paper and create the BB Shapes with cookie cutters right on the sheet, freeze them and then transfer them onto trees in your yard. </span></li></ol><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFazrfHBL1fMWKp8P2ajBJoBewHSvRA83QIE7UStxpcOKnboqob1EkUi928nhEq27tQNOBPbQQEBpEuj7MEOqCU65cCeetoaKc55xvqlo-rMEB0UgrsDdjocEYPU-3Z28uOjcBDBVzV496ny14QhKWKjUV_bvnOjRnFD5vItlQDIuwjlt3fSkgi8Hz=s864" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFazrfHBL1fMWKp8P2ajBJoBewHSvRA83QIE7UStxpcOKnboqob1EkUi928nhEq27tQNOBPbQQEBpEuj7MEOqCU65cCeetoaKc55xvqlo-rMEB0UgrsDdjocEYPU-3Z28uOjcBDBVzV496ny14QhKWKjUV_bvnOjRnFD5vItlQDIuwjlt3fSkgi8Hz=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bark Butter can help turn a stump into an incredible bird feeding station. Red-headed Woodpecker and Red Bellied Woodpecker eating Bark Butter. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Creating Bark Butter shapes is an amazing activity to do with children, as it helps connect them to local biodiversity in an entertaining way. They can help make shapes and then tally which species show up. </div><div><br /></div><div>The ultimate birder holiday activity? Make Bark Butter shapes for your Project Feederwatch day. To learn more about Project Feederwatch and how you can participate, visit their official page <a href="https://feederwatch.org">here. </a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you create Bark Butter shapes we would love to see your photos, don't forget to tag us or share in the Ontario Birds by WBU Barrie and WBU Newmarket group. You can always tag us on Instagram @wbubarrie and/or @wbu.newmarket to be featured. </div><div><br /></div><div>Have fun out there!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Warmly, </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Heather</i></div>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-87920634266208721562024-01-17T00:00:00.009-05:002024-01-17T14:35:12.340-05:00Migratory Birds on the Move in February<p><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">February in Ontario may seem like a quiet time for wildlife, but for bird enthusiasts, it's a month filled with the silent, yet powerful, movement of migratory birds. What may seem like a bleak month marks the beginning of many avian species embark on incredible journeys, crossing borders and landscapes to find more favorable conditions. In this blog post, we'll what's going on with migratory birds in February, highlighting the species, routes, and what to offer in your backyard. </span></span></p><p><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnrwGzDVYRGa_LCc17kKY1Ug1jR998CT2GjLkx0uoF606PAZtRGL0y8F3GzObdhp318guPET3FkF3hyphenhyphenjI5gj_-zH2_FuQLyNfVAwJP969N2u3sgNKxup7js6R9suG0RKdyi7_IPvKbPTHsK1x3g9zwBwR5sezJKC6CLmM_Oq0NKv6cLpZZ_HQc0gHNrQ/s5472/52719899852_34cea3fa25_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnrwGzDVYRGa_LCc17kKY1Ug1jR998CT2GjLkx0uoF606PAZtRGL0y8F3GzObdhp318guPET3FkF3hyphenhyphenjI5gj_-zH2_FuQLyNfVAwJP969N2u3sgNKxup7js6R9suG0RKdyi7_IPvKbPTHsK1x3g9zwBwR5sezJKC6CLmM_Oq0NKv6cLpZZ_HQc0gHNrQ/w640-h426/52719899852_34cea3fa25_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Creeper. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Winter Exodus:</span></p><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">February marks the beginning of the northward migration for some species. <span style="font-size: 16px;">The Winter exodus refers to the annual phenomenon where certain bird species undertake long-distance migrations from their breeding grounds to wintering grounds. This journey is driven by the need to find more favorable conditions for feeding and survival, especially in the face of harsh winter weather. The Winter exodus typically involves a south-to-north movement for many species in the Northern Hemisphere, while birds in the Southern Hemisphere may migrate in the opposite direction. This is triggered by changes in daylight hours, temperature, and instinctual timing. </span></span></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Highlighting Species in Motion:</span></span></p></li></ol><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Eastern Bluebirds:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> In some areas, Eastern Bluebirds may begin exploring potential nesting sites, signaling the start of their breeding activities.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Red-tailed Hawks:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> These raptors may be on the move in February, either migrating or engaging in territorial displays as they prepare for nesting.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Bald Eagles:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> February is a good time to spot Bald Eagles as they engage in courtship displays and prepare for the upcoming breeding season. Some may migrate to northern regions.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Mallards:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Mallards, another common waterfowl species, may start their northward movements in February, seeking suitable breeding grounds.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Canada Geese:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> February marks the beginning of the northward migration for Canada Geese. Flocks of these iconic birds can be observed flying in V formations.</span></span></li></ul><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUINbBJZmE6iaAGN38Ncdb7-x3Qc253MbVKQzEXCemV0P4qJf4MZPgvj9Hd36mtZucl4YqX5sI5FRAweUL31Zbudtl421suUo9vVQvNPzanx0ka0rURj80lDrSKhGosNXOaZQloNFFOrF0CijbjulK_cvNaT9Rj9-ojO2JU7Ckp3jDZO8bQ4BXd2LUFLo/s1904/34722064923_be1e4b74ff_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1269" data-original-width="1904" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUINbBJZmE6iaAGN38Ncdb7-x3Qc253MbVKQzEXCemV0P4qJf4MZPgvj9Hd36mtZucl4YqX5sI5FRAweUL31Zbudtl421suUo9vVQvNPzanx0ka0rURj80lDrSKhGosNXOaZQloNFFOrF0CijbjulK_cvNaT9Rj9-ojO2JU7Ckp3jDZO8bQ4BXd2LUFLo/w640-h426/34722064923_be1e4b74ff_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Bluebird. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><p></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Where can you see migrating birds? </b>
<span style="font-size: 16px;">The Great Lakes region serves as a significant migration corridor or flyway for a wide variety of bird species. It </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">offers diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and shoreline areas, making it attractive for birds during migration. These habitats provide essential resources such as food, shelter, and suitable resting areas.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Birds use this corridor during their seasonal migrations between breeding and wintering grounds.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">The Great Lakes provide excellent opportunities for birdwatchers to observe a wide array of bird species during migration.</span></span></p></li></ol><div>Backyard foods to offer this time of year: <br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed/striped-sunflower-seed">Sunflower Seeds</a></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed/safflower">Safflower</a></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/shop/bird-food/seed-cylinders">Seed Cylinders</a></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/shop/bird-food/bird-seed/no-mess-blend-lm-bird-seed">No Mess Blends</a></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/shop/bird-food/bird-seed/supreme-blend-bird-seed">Supreme Blend</a></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(58, 57, 57); font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/bark-butter-bits">Bark Butter bits</a></span></span></li></ul></div><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
As winter begins to loosen its grip on Ontario (yay!) , February becomes a critical month for birdwatchers. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a novice, the opportunities to witness these feathered travelers are plentiful. Bundle up and grab your binoculars, we're about to witness migratory birds make their remarkable journey northward.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy -almost- spring!! </span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Warmly, </i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Heather</i></span></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-42261248715487595612024-01-08T13:23:00.005-05:002024-01-08T13:23:47.497-05:00Do Chipmunks Hibernate? And Other FAQs About Chipmunks<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuV8qqhV8kxTl1bLYUb0mc9igfPE_0Nu4PpqLFKMKbkebGGP4QbOlFHfvzq9rHgxNJn8J9Hzpak8gOIXLGTqWwJQ8XB5TBclrpx-dIqcIsV6fH8cnkCXQCzgybSPouuqUx42U7P-Eks3KcUB_25z8H9ViAx0OmdZ4aASgm6Lhw_-jxrESAamsC5Gw-xN56/s3635/48933163622_604f012e7a_5k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2290" data-original-width="3635" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuV8qqhV8kxTl1bLYUb0mc9igfPE_0Nu4PpqLFKMKbkebGGP4QbOlFHfvzq9rHgxNJn8J9Hzpak8gOIXLGTqWwJQ8XB5TBclrpx-dIqcIsV6fH8cnkCXQCzgybSPouuqUx42U7P-Eks3KcUB_25z8H9ViAx0OmdZ4aASgm6Lhw_-jxrESAamsC5Gw-xN56/w640-h404/48933163622_604f012e7a_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Chipmunk</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Do Chipmunks hibernate?</b><br />Contrary to popular belief, chipmunks <b>do not</b> actually hibernate. Instead, they go into a state known as <i>torpor</i>. Torpor is an involuntary state of hibernation where an animal is able to lower its body temperature, heart rate, metabolic rate, and breathing rate, in order to expend less energy and survive the cold weather. Torpor is different from true hibernation in that it lasts short periods of time (typically days), and allows for the animals to wake, feed, and relieve itself in between. Emergence from a torpid state is triggered by ambient temperature and food availability, and takes approximately one hour to recover from. So, don't be surprised if you see a chipmunk bounding through the snow on a mild winter day!<br /><br /><b>What are their burrows like?<br /></b>A chipmunk's burrow is made up of several tunnels, pockets, and chambers. There are several entrances to allow for a quick escape from a predator (such as a snake), collapse, or flooding, all of which are typically camouflaged under rocks or bushes. All entrances lead to the main nesting chamber, where the chipmunk sleeps, and spends much of its time during the winter months. The nesting chamber is lined with insulating materials like leaves, grasses, and thistledown, and often has a store of food underneath for easy access in cold weather. Along each tunnel are side pockets used to store food and empty shells, and are sometimes used for the chipmunk to easily turn around in narrow spots. Lastly, narrow drainage tunnels are dug at the bottom of the burrow to help carry water away. Researchers have found no evidence of a latrine (or bathroom) inside of the burrow, so it is believed that the chipmunk must leave the area to relieve itself. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoF3ZVVkeSPHBYKGa2DJHVgPjyPj6bu6xwB84NncvILACZA2V3Zqo6CsSP6VzGSrThcBuMttLdNylQXftg_IWL27zIAI8hktxrj-9P0To41xzAbsKzbODHyePQOkCkVnqvOEd17HmW9ZUdru_88qkSUbAKg8lMWyKqvECwpfL1q42lpHX8jvRDHoa80Yh/s2048/191064417_10165123571540363_6897869880147455323_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1417" data-original-width="2048" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoF3ZVVkeSPHBYKGa2DJHVgPjyPj6bu6xwB84NncvILACZA2V3Zqo6CsSP6VzGSrThcBuMttLdNylQXftg_IWL27zIAI8hktxrj-9P0To41xzAbsKzbODHyePQOkCkVnqvOEd17HmW9ZUdru_88qkSUbAKg8lMWyKqvECwpfL1q42lpHX8jvRDHoa80Yh/w640-h442/191064417_10165123571540363_6897869880147455323_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Chipmunk siblings</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Do Chipmunks live in colonies?</b><br />While chipmunks live close to each other, they are generally solitary animals. Home ranges can vary in size between 0.04 and 1.26 hectares, with males typically having larger ranges than females. These areas do not strictly belong to one chipmunk, and frequently overlap with several individuals. When crossing each other's paths in their home ranges, chipmunks will usually tolerate one another and go about their business alone. There is no overlap of territory when it comes to burrows, and if one chipmunk comes within close proximity to another chipmunk's burrow, the owner will pursue and chase the intruder away from its home. Chipmunks use scent marks to mark their territory and communicate to others that a certain space is their dominance area. When a chipmunk is near another individual's burrow, it will typically avoid the area, but some may wander a little too close for comfort for the owner resulting in an exchange of words, a chase, and occasionally, a scuffle. <br /><br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRkBnKikylqGucQ6ov31x7Oo8pB5uavNh48i_EVNPNgD319bb-hDGuDpCUvrHyBs2qyMWLBqqBvXS2vF6fBiOET5T6g-0SVbWi8IocVMKxg5jKcjnvKS2kPjSAoNQb2rx0gBmohLAIYGZP8llnHjjtK1ZGEmcbKQmTNTP_VjcDogM3zLqRDcj55rlBgLZ/s3073/277738757_487668989706173_7066229868071103933_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3073" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRkBnKikylqGucQ6ov31x7Oo8pB5uavNh48i_EVNPNgD319bb-hDGuDpCUvrHyBs2qyMWLBqqBvXS2vF6fBiOET5T6g-0SVbWi8IocVMKxg5jKcjnvKS2kPjSAoNQb2rx0gBmohLAIYGZP8llnHjjtK1ZGEmcbKQmTNTP_VjcDogM3zLqRDcj55rlBgLZ/w426-h640/277738757_487668989706173_7066229868071103933_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Chipmunk blocked by WBU Raccoon Baffle</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br />How can I keep Chipmunks away from my feeders?</b></p><p><b>Exclusion & deterrent methods</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Install <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/poles-baffles-hobby-products/poles-baffles-hobby-products" target="_blank">baffles</a><br /></b>The best defence against feeder-raiders are baffles. A properly placed baffle, such as a squirrel baffle or raccoon baffle, is the only way to entirely exclude chipmunks from feeders. To ensure that a baffle is going to work against chipmunks, your feeder pole needs to be at least 7' from any object sturdy enough for a chipmunk to jump from (house, fence, tree, etc), and the top of the baffle should sit at 5' high. If you have feeders hanging from trees, you can purchase baffles that go above the feeders and stop critters from jumping or climbing down. These styles aren't as effective as a pole system with a mounted baffle, but they can help limit access.<br /> </li><li><b>Use specific <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders" target="_blank">feeders</a><br /></b>100% chipmunk-proof feeders are tough to come by, but there are some feeders that you can use in your yard to help deter them, or at least slow them down. Because of their small feeding holes, WBU Finch Feeders can help to deter chipmunks. These finch feeders also have reinforced metal feed ports to discourage chipmunks chewing to make the holes on the feeder bigger. While chipmunks love seed, they'll also feed on suet. Starling-proof suet feeders and upside-down suet feeders can help to discourage chipmunks from gulping down suet cakes as they have difficulty accessing these feeders and hanging upside down while feeding.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Offer less "chipmunk friendly" <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food" target="_blank">foods</a><br /></b>Safflower is typically our recommendation to deter blackbirds and squirrels, but unfortunately, it isn't the case with chipmunks. In fact, it is the opposite - they love it! Be prepared if you are offering safflower in your yard as a deterrence for other critters and birds, you will need additional protection from chipmunks if you don't want them to eat from the feeders. Some other foods you could offer that chipmunks aren't huge fans of are Nyjer seed, Simply Suet (plain suet), and hot pepper foods. Hot pepper food varieties may or may not help with chipmunks due to their fur-lined cheek pouches. The pouches help protect the chipmunks from tasting the spice produced by hot pepper foods, but once they get a taste of it they might think twice before coming back for more.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>And for all the chipmunk lovers out there (I know there are lots - myself included!), here are some happy chipmunk habitat tips:<br /><br />Though food is important, there's much more to survival than just eating! Chipmunks require a consistent source of fresh water to drink and to aid in grooming, safe places to hide from predators, natural food sources, and nesting material. To help chipmunks thrive in your yard, be sure to have an accessible water dish or bird bath with fresh, clean water available at all times. Keep brush piles and dense shrubs where possible to allow for a quick getaway when fleeing from predators. Brush and leaf piles can also be used by chipmunks as nesting materials in the spring. Plant native plants that produce fruits, nuts, and support insects that chipmunks feed on. Last but not least, keep kitty inside. Free-roaming cats are introduced and invasive predators that pose a huge threat to our native wildlife species. It is much safer for both chipmunks and our cats to be indoor-only, unless on lead or in an enclosed space such as a "catio".</div><p></p><div><div><br /></div><div><i>* NOTE: In the Province of Ontario, chipmunks can be trapped and relocated 1 kilometer from where you trapped them. They can easily travel that 1 kilometer distance back to your house. Moving your chipmunks also makes room for more chipmunks to enter the habitat, with one gone its neighbour will move in. So the most effective way to deal with chipmunks is to accept that they are a part of your yard and invest in a good pole system and baffle. Putting a feeder out just for chipmunks will not do much to distract them from your other bird feeders it may simply attract more to your home. For more information on chipmunk exclusion, visit our <a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. </i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Happy trails!</div><div>- Shayna </div></div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-10295147962121278232024-01-03T12:42:00.003-05:002024-01-03T12:42:52.473-05:00Welcoming Red-Headed Woodpeckers to Your Yard: A Guide to Attracting These Beautiful Birds<div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're a backyard birder or bird enthusiast, you've likely heard of the elusive Red-headed Woodpecker. They are an endangered species that has held a place on the </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.02rem;">Species at Risk in Ontario list </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: inherit;">since the </span><cite style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; display: inline; font-family: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Endangered Species Act</cite><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: inherit;">took effect in 2008.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> These striking birds are known for their distinctive appearance and lively personalities. Considering their endangered status, we're providing valuable tips on how to create an inviting environment to attract them to your yard while also supporting them as a species. </span></div><div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But first, what threatens them? </span></div><div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A loss of nesting sites and suitable habitats, including competing with European Starlings (an introduced species) for nesting sites, collisions with man made structures, and exposure to unnatural </span>predators<span style="font-family: inherit;"> such as domestic cats are all factors in their decline. </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOCt8iRJvxzpzgKu5GnKQuCbWoraZhc62KYrzar-Qt7iGFKWEA2jwvOH7eXHVCFY4yrq8CrPlPuXg7LpWXhz3HAocK1QryOFi09O-dgPpzOpZogQGvjHGDnu-nLIoGIeI_iJ_v366fSXg8WzcFM46XFgQntmp6gLJN6icdAQSMP803qy8kIxgb-2GshM/s5379/52116207139_ae6a7361c2_o%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3769" data-original-width="5379" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOCt8iRJvxzpzgKu5GnKQuCbWoraZhc62KYrzar-Qt7iGFKWEA2jwvOH7eXHVCFY4yrq8CrPlPuXg7LpWXhz3HAocK1QryOFi09O-dgPpzOpZogQGvjHGDnu-nLIoGIeI_iJ_v366fSXg8WzcFM46XFgQntmp6gLJN6icdAQSMP803qy8kIxgb-2GshM/w640-h448/52116207139_ae6a7361c2_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-headed Woodpecker. Photo by Shayna Hartley.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Red-headed woodpeckers (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) are medium-sized birds that feature a stunning crimson head,. Their striking appearance and energetic behavior make them a favorite among birdwatchers. These woodpeckers are also beneficial to have around, as they help control insect populations by foraging on pests such as beetles, caterpillars, and ants.</span></div><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Habitat and Range:</b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, orchards, and open areas with scattered trees. They are distributed across North America, with their range extending from the eastern parts of the United States to the Great Plains and into southern Canada.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Creating an Inviting Habitat:</b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To attract red-headed woodpeckers to your yard, it's essential to create a habitat that meets their specific needs. Here are some tips to make your space more attractive to these beautiful birds:</span></p><ul class="ul1"><li class="li1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><b>Provide Suitable Nesting Sites: </b>Red-headed woodpeckers typically nest in tree cavities. You can install nest boxes with the right dimensions (about 7 inches by 7 inches floor size and 15-24 inches tall) to mimic natural nesting sites. Otherwise, keep appropriate trees on your property if able. </span></li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEJALsM2UWeK0c3tZ21a6IeSSf6nzkkpVJFx1FGOJWrBF1GFOKzimBJuDMJoi73HyPNHwZH6rZW5b0qXNlHPCQMrldFLXG44NyG2hWGkWTy1PKhKBCqwO-19fVO7WdlZNO8QlY6vTln2e9SokWOblmBrAapSjZA1gQuBJiyawbXPqV4tUz6o1u5mwAsw/s4898/48876309967_60b2326385_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4898" data-original-width="3265" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEJALsM2UWeK0c3tZ21a6IeSSf6nzkkpVJFx1FGOJWrBF1GFOKzimBJuDMJoi73HyPNHwZH6rZW5b0qXNlHPCQMrldFLXG44NyG2hWGkWTy1PKhKBCqwO-19fVO7WdlZNO8QlY6vTln2e9SokWOblmBrAapSjZA1gQuBJiyawbXPqV4tUz6o1u5mwAsw/w426-h640/48876309967_60b2326385_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-headed Woodpecker nesting cavity. Photo by Kristen Martyn.</td></tr></tbody></table><ul class="ul1"><li class="li1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><b>Offer a Varied Diet: </b>Red-headed woodpeckers have a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, and seeds. To attract them to your yard, offer suet, suet blends, <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter">Bark Butter</a>, peanuts, tree nuts, mealworms, sunflower, sunflower chips, cracked corn, fruits, they even like nectar. Try planting fruit-bearing trees like cherry, apple, or crabapple. </span></li></ul><ul class="ul1"><li class="li1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><b>Provide Perching and Foraging Areas: </b>These woodpeckers are adept at catching insects on the wing, so having open spaces with scattered trees or dead branches for perching and foraging is essential. Keep your yard diverse with a mix of vegetation, both tall and short, to attract a variety of insects can help. </span></li></ul><ul class="ul1"><li class="li1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><b>Maintain a Water Source: </b>Red-headed woodpeckers need a water source for drinking and bathing. Install a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-baths-&-houses/bird-baths-&-water">bird bath </a>or a shallow dish with fresh water to make your yard more appealing to these feathered friends. Heated bird baths are a great option for winter and are especially attractive when other water sources are frozen. </span></li></ul><ul class="ul1"><li class="li1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"></span><b>Minimize Pesticide Use: </b>Red-headed woodpeckers rely on insects for a significant portion of their diet. Minimize the use of pesticides in your yard to ensure a healthy population of insects for these birds to feed on.</span></li></ul><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Creating a bird-friendly environment in your yard is a rewarding experience, and attracting red-headed woodpeckers adds a touch of brilliance. By providing suitable nesting sites, a diverse and abundant food supply, and a safe and inviting habitat, you can turn your backyard into a haven for these stunning woodpeckers. You can learn more about their conservation status, recovery strategy, and even report a sighting on their ontario.ca profile <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/red-headed-woodpecker#:~:text=Threats%20to%20the%20Red%2Dheaded,lines%20causing%20harm%20or%20death">HERE.</a> </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoy these beautiful birds! <br /><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Warmly, </i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Heather</i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p3" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 2px; min-height: 19px; text-align: center;"><b></b><br /></p><p class="p3" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 2px; min-height: 19px; text-align: center;"><b></b><br /></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-2127088703373356672023-12-14T14:52:00.003-05:002023-12-14T14:52:38.541-05:00Downy or Hairy? How to Tell Who's Who! <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A conundrum that most birders are faced with early on in their birdwatching journey: <i>is it a Downy Woodpecker, or a Hairy? </i>These two common feeder visitors can be difficult to differentiate, particularly while flitting from feeder to tree in true woodpecker fashion. Here are some tips to keep in mind when faced with this identification challenge.<br /><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6vG4CaGGFH-V7YT0GDnGoTyQyM_pWhYUhG2NKFXnaT9x7PoKgvNwO6h6HlxfTj50m5uf2f9Thg1ii0Iht6EQj5zFUj5KDm-tv3W2TYeWAvem2LWVExnYBqSTYkMudY34UnkU6en0oxfY/s1600/My+Post+%252839%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6vG4CaGGFH-V7YT0GDnGoTyQyM_pWhYUhG2NKFXnaT9x7PoKgvNwO6h6HlxfTj50m5uf2f9Thg1ii0Iht6EQj5zFUj5KDm-tv3W2TYeWAvem2LWVExnYBqSTYkMudY34UnkU6en0oxfY/s640/My+Post+%252839%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Left: Female Downy Woodpecker <i>(Picoides pubescens)</i> - Right: Female Hairy Woodpecker <i>(Leuconotopicus villosus)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>* Males in both species have a distinct red cap</i></span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bill Size</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNAg1nRGEHXZhEVdVEQy_olJcgHYEee74arISGGAnabTzj94hww0OoRG4Vds1CeY7-aAHmMMgPhPY-O9RbgHJxlv6BeSeWKTftYGCeWYL1hqJ0s7I4uhq1hmEKHWy2hjtcKrUAxOSy-4c/s1600/53112104_2242541279348270_7368697427777290240_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="923" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNAg1nRGEHXZhEVdVEQy_olJcgHYEee74arISGGAnabTzj94hww0OoRG4Vds1CeY7-aAHmMMgPhPY-O9RbgHJxlv6BeSeWKTftYGCeWYL1hqJ0s7I4uhq1hmEKHWy2hjtcKrUAxOSy-4c/s400/53112104_2242541279348270_7368697427777290240_n.jpg" width="230" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Left: Female Hairy Woodpecker <i>(Leuconotopicus villosus)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Right:<i> </i>Female Downy Woodpecker <i>(Picoides pubescens)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the easiest ways to tell these two look-alikes apart, is to examine the bill size. Is it petite in comparison to the head? Or is it long and prominent? Downy Woodpeckers have a short and dainty bill, whereas a Hairy's bill is robust & chisel-like. A Hairy Woodpecker's bill is </span>roughly<span style="font-family: inherit;"> as long as it's head, whereas a Downy's is much shorter. Have a look at the photo above for side-by-side comparison.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall Body Size</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Simply put: Downys are small, Hairys are big. Males and females are virtually the same size in both species, with the males having a red bar or cap on their head. The difference in body size between the two species is quite obvious when they are side-by-side, but when viewing a lone bird (especially at a </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">distance) it can be difficult to make a judgement. Some size references to keep in mind; Downy Woodpeckers are about the length of a Song Sparrow, and Hairys are close in length to a Red-winged Blackbird.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Calls</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While their calls are similar, there is some minor variation in pitch. The Downy Woodpecker's pitch descends at the end of their call, whereas the Hairy's is slightly deeper overall & monotone throughout. I also find that Hairys usually announce their visit by calling loudly just before landing on a bird feeder. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Click below for links to hear each bird's call.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Downy_Woodpecker/sounds" target="_blank">Downy Woodpecker Call</a> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hairy_Woodpecker/sounds" target="_blank">Hairy Woodpecker Call</a></span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDbI4kk9GjYBN-Vnfdlhpmth292Zeqb4FjIItxBSFdcee-bF_ZM4NX7dO0DhUWHc1UMROhxNT8hMyqFPODIqkIl-YtX_hMj4MrfK-zZYtKh3gUIPB8mWod_WgKntXJ-ryNFkInVY90OMx/s1600/tails.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDbI4kk9GjYBN-Vnfdlhpmth292Zeqb4FjIItxBSFdcee-bF_ZM4NX7dO0DhUWHc1UMROhxNT8hMyqFPODIqkIl-YtX_hMj4MrfK-zZYtKh3gUIPB8mWod_WgKntXJ-ryNFkInVY90OMx/s320/tails.jpg" width="312" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Left: Downy Woodpecker <i>(Picoides pubescens)</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Right: Hairy Woodpecker <i>(Leuconotopicus villosus)</i></span><br /><div><i><br /></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tail Feathers</span></b></div>
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<div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The outer tail feathers of a Downy Woodpecker are typically white and barred or spotted with black, whereas with Hairy Woodpeckers the feathers are pure white (see image to the right). This identification feature is a tougher one to rely on as it depends on the angle you're viewing the bird from. From above the pattern of the Downy's feathers is less noticeable than from a side or lower angle.</span></div>
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<b>Attracting Woodpeckers to Your Yard</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Woodpeckers of all varieties are some of the most entertaining visitors you can have in your yard and at your feeders. Some highly desirable foods that you can offer to attract woodpeckers include shelled peanuts, live mealworms, <span style="color: #444444;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/bark-butter" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">WBU Bark Butter</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> & </span><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter/bark-butter-bits" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Bark Butter Bits</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">, and our newest line of suet </span><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/suet-mealworms/supersuet" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">SuperSuet</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> which is a blend of high quality beef fat, mealworms, tree nuts, and calcium. Other woodpecker species you may see at your feeders include </span><a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/attracting-red-bellied-woodpeckers" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Red-bellied</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> and </span><a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/attracting-pileated-woodpeckers" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Pileated</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">. </span></span></span></div>
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<b style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Trails!</span></b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>- Shayna</b></span></div>
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Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-36133880547717183962023-12-13T13:20:00.004-05:002023-12-13T13:32:36.550-05:00Nature Based Activities for the Holidays 🎄<p><span style="font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As we all (hopefully) take some time to slow down over the holidays and spend some time in nature, here are some fun, engaging activities that the entire family will love, while encouraging you all to learn more about nature and connect with your natural environment - right at home. The best part? most of them you can accomplish at home with readily available materials! </span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Repurpose your Christmas Tree </span></u></b></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As we all look to get rid of our Christmas trees (the real ones that is), there are a number of ways you can repurpose your tree for wildlife. Try setting it up in your backyard to act as shelter for birds and other wildlife. You can even make bird friendly ornaments to hang and watch them enjoy! </span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly, if you're feeling crafty, you can repurpose your tree into wreaths, candles, or coasters for your home. Here's an entire blog on <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/upcycling-how-to-reuse-and-re-purpose.html">fun and easy ways to repurpose your tree. </a></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeM0VtYFNGdg6JKqiE5ShPlNqbhakdU_xL7MIijWDWnJAvU4W8lvwkjZtaVRGXQ_Zg1-jbIS5ZsSrvlqNOBWE7fMv8WY2VJqIn_YOKV-j4Dm1ErztpangMZtGj0M7ma6AlwD1GXdIR4BgKj6QDuMw0UMDiMJhC3TdvDqZ9Aep-RW1VU-Fmn8DJ0AQs/s4019/49240732923_219cac8ba8_o%20(1).jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2698" data-original-width="4019" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeM0VtYFNGdg6JKqiE5ShPlNqbhakdU_xL7MIijWDWnJAvU4W8lvwkjZtaVRGXQ_Zg1-jbIS5ZsSrvlqNOBWE7fMv8WY2VJqIn_YOKV-j4Dm1ErztpangMZtGj0M7ma6AlwD1GXdIR4BgKj6QDuMw0UMDiMJhC3TdvDqZ9Aep-RW1VU-Fmn8DJ0AQs/w640-h430/49240732923_219cac8ba8_o%20(1).jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Cardinal pair enjoying Bark Butter in a repurpose Christmas tree. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Mh-7YWE6GvIMC7s5wcc4GCABxSalXTIZQnvY3PtO8egWaYJIXUhemRgN_KOCL_zib1knrTb95DT4jIPHw2DVIwxlNbc-PpFmCH6wwS-MOKCwoNV3EwFYSfQJ-L2MK2CUxPSgASJOsD3qhqaD3-xsnPg043M8ynHOCVX__T0u2REbGuR_kYG4fNw/s5472/49241528952_0dcbe81d23_o%20(1).jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Mh-7YWE6GvIMC7s5wcc4GCABxSalXTIZQnvY3PtO8egWaYJIXUhemRgN_KOCL_zib1knrTb95DT4jIPHw2DVIwxlNbc-PpFmCH6wwS-MOKCwoNV3EwFYSfQJ-L2MK2CUxPSgASJOsD3qhqaD3-xsnPg043M8ynHOCVX__T0u2REbGuR_kYG4fNw/w640-h426/49241528952_0dcbe81d23_o%20(1).jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">American Tree Sparrow in repurposed Christmas tree with edible bird friendly ornament. </td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Build a Snow Owl </span></u></b></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This one is equal parts fun and easy! Something different than your typical snowman, this doubles as both fun and functional - it's a bird feeder too. </span><br /><br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuWvdeXqGAbd_uHbzhubH9ImcCK0kWdbGIWuEy-VLVX0aHjFoYbeGYLsqrpjWneBoa2OOTYWB9ok7BbGhVXR1XNgjlJTR-BSeO0JQJrvkMMXP1YxRFmG_MikxJ_v7ID07BkEOWhCnfKC8nPOAqPLS4HkHU6p0tocKCMN1IwJW91qrj3oPMdyIZjXc/s3044/31955417786_21bcfdc452_o.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2029" data-original-width="3044" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuWvdeXqGAbd_uHbzhubH9ImcCK0kWdbGIWuEy-VLVX0aHjFoYbeGYLsqrpjWneBoa2OOTYWB9ok7BbGhVXR1XNgjlJTR-BSeO0JQJrvkMMXP1YxRFmG_MikxJ_v7ID07BkEOWhCnfKC8nPOAqPLS4HkHU6p0tocKCMN1IwJW91qrj3oPMdyIZjXc/w640-h426/31955417786_21bcfdc452_o.jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Snow Owl for the birds. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can find step by step instructions on how to build your own <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2017/01/lets-build-snowy-owl.html" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">here. </a></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Create Bark Butter Shapes and Place them on Trees</span></u></b></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Creating Bark Butter shapes is an amazing activity to do with children, as it helps connect them to local biodiversity in an entertaining way. They can help make shapes and then tally which species show up. </span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidURRBzN8eGZebXXIKX7czy7yXGc8SEHw9SAOl_gCROlFwiffx4M5kVp0c01jKpR8zXeRGQDAzWEKQvc7sr8U5zzQ9XhJOnLaNeezP-bMnl_M68MUhBl-0P0TmNSpQfw7VbuFaeKJ_pKp8cDDPHmU2CBjGZrEZ1yER-Tg6qpURonhyUrzJ5qoystOF/s640/00008421.jpeg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidURRBzN8eGZebXXIKX7czy7yXGc8SEHw9SAOl_gCROlFwiffx4M5kVp0c01jKpR8zXeRGQDAzWEKQvc7sr8U5zzQ9XhJOnLaNeezP-bMnl_M68MUhBl-0P0TmNSpQfw7VbuFaeKJ_pKp8cDDPHmU2CBjGZrEZ1yER-Tg6qpURonhyUrzJ5qoystOF/w429-h640/00008421.jpeg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;" width="429" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">White Breasted Nuthatch and Downy Woodpecker checking out Bark Butter shapes.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For detailed instructions on how to create your own Bark Butter shapes, check out our full blog on it <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2021/12/bark-butter-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it.html" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">here.</a> </span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Participate in Project Feederwatch</span></u></b></span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Backyard birding brings many joys to our lives, and just simply watching and counting the birds can also help </span><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">save them</i><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Project FeederWatch is a bird feeder survey that began in the 1970's at Long Point Bird Observatory in Ontario with 500 participants across the province, and has since expanded to reach all across North American backyards with over 20 000 participants. This citizen science project run by </span><a href="https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Cornell Lab of Ornithology</a><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> and </span><a href="https://www.birdscanada.org/" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Birds Canada</a><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> is designed with us in mind providing each new participant with a Research Kit that includes complete instructions, a bird identification poster, wall calendar, and more. They've even launched a handy smartphone app (</span></span><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/project-feederwatch/id1439222765?ign-mpt=uo%3D2&fbclid=IwAR1wsxGSLJCyCEoxHXIm3MeFpR9trm8WtRzORqdTa2J8S20sgx5q5re3ldc" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Apple</a><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> | </span><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=edu.cornell.birds.feederwatchmobile&hl=en_US&fbclid=IwAR3_iovnUTsX4Gvku3NYmcgHbEzf5M4Zu_dhFVfNiHy4ghqHKo7T6fy0x3Q" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Android</a><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">) making it easier than ever to enter and submit data & help birds right from your own backyard. If you want to learn more about Project Feederwatch and why you should participate, check out our full blog on the subject <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/5-reasons-to-join-project-feederwatch.html" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">here. </a></span></span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrc8HnZtOcOYNDSLzvJeADPLf7lSKaD4hlEZ1l29cG3WKHo8T7deU_d6-KrrMOTttEzbsfNHeBrIkkpYmCcLwx03np3RmXZ7CRpbkEHh8ICo2Y2_27DQyG0ntK1PxkSXEdXHLPjZSxo8aaf5_fZ3oRQdqQHBPMaM-9enayq4ptZ5APnGTMKd4cvVS/s5472/49319009596_7fc048532f_o.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrc8HnZtOcOYNDSLzvJeADPLf7lSKaD4hlEZ1l29cG3WKHo8T7deU_d6-KrrMOTttEzbsfNHeBrIkkpYmCcLwx03np3RmXZ7CRpbkEHh8ICo2Y2_27DQyG0ntK1PxkSXEdXHLPjZSxo8aaf5_fZ3oRQdqQHBPMaM-9enayq4ptZ5APnGTMKd4cvVS/w640-h426/49319009596_7fc048532f_o.jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">American Tree Sparrow eating out of a ground feeder. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We hope you take the time to breathe deeply, slow down, and reap the mental benefits of immersing in nature and watching the birds this holiday season. </span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Warmly, </span></i></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heather</span></i></span></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-77308527193813079302023-12-06T14:09:00.000-05:002023-12-06T14:09:40.381-05:00Attracting Birds with Bark Butter<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_73swqKjTQ-HphhmcxeXaqSovICuz7OzBVYXYI4tWAK59CsBkz_NLiPB9_kZPskVeMvHnb8mQdNJEyrmux2LjL16ooQz4AUXkKI8sfWb3TsqfNuS4H977nCJBMhdz_TKAvVdzxz0YB6P3hlEXcSEIX8YPihtE1MRr4XjOUAdeALtp2Y-zVireedzY5B3C/s5120/50903857432_9e7a19d19f_5k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3413" data-original-width="5120" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_73swqKjTQ-HphhmcxeXaqSovICuz7OzBVYXYI4tWAK59CsBkz_NLiPB9_kZPskVeMvHnb8mQdNJEyrmux2LjL16ooQz4AUXkKI8sfWb3TsqfNuS4H977nCJBMhdz_TKAvVdzxz0YB6P3hlEXcSEIX8YPihtE1MRr4XjOUAdeALtp2Y-zVireedzY5B3C/w640-h426/50903857432_9e7a19d19f_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downy Woodpecker eating Hot Pepper Bark Butter</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>What is Bark Butter?</b><br />Jim's Birdacious Bark Butter is a highly nutritious, palatable, and spreadable suet created by Wild Birds Unlimited founder, Jim Carpenter, with the intention of attracting the shy Brown Creeper to his yard. Jim spent years perfecting his recipe, ultimately coming up with the perfect blend of pure rendered beef suet, peanut butter, corn, and added calcium for an extra boost. Not only did this recipe attract Brown Creepers, but it also attracted several other species who were not regular suet feeder visitors such as Grey Catbirds, Northern Mockingbirds, and Northern Cardinals. Since it's creation, Bark Butter has been recorded being dined upon by over 150 bird species!<br /><br /></p><p><b>Bark Butter Varieties<br /></b>Over the years, Bark Butter has become so popular among backyard birders and birds themselves, that new varieties with added benefits and different applications have been created to further enhance the bird feeding experience. Those varieties include:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Hot Pepper Bark Butter:</b> The original spreadable Bark Butter with a spicy kick to deter squirrels and other critters, allowing you to feed the birds anywhere and keep unwanted diners at bay.</li><li><b>Bark Butter Bits:</b> All the goodness of Bark Butter rolled in to bite sized pieces. Bark Butter Bits can be fed alone in a variety of different feeders, or mixed in with your favourite WBU seed blend. They are an ideal food to offer during nesting season as they are packed with calcium and easy for parents to feed their young birds, With some patience and luck, you may even get a bird to land in your hand for one of these delicious morsels! Also available in hot pepper variety.</li><li><b>Bugs & Bits:</b> A mix of our popular Bark Butter Bits & dried mealworms, designed to attract insect-eating species. Enjoyed by birds year-round, but especially beneficial for a boost of nutrients during nesting season. </li><li><b>Bark Butter No-Melt Cylinder:</b> A long-lasting feeding option that allows for longer views of your backyard birds as they continue to come back for more of this tasty treat. Fits in any WBU suet cylinder feeders.</li><li><b>Bark Butter Plugs:</b> Same nourishing Bark Butter recipe in a convenient plug form. Can be used in suet plug feeders or suet cages.<br /><br /></li></ul><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8QZPZjFFGvnEexmIYkz8qYsUzq4DtDWKOsGr83nduw-vwi3T0zfSSarg-a96z6gHIF_foPP5URwXYoo0Gd2QV2hRaJKAbjWhwBRLyZzHbpp-G_Z4EgDLH8jaUmYYolQ-IpFCVKkD6AM8SzT_3KDOLuyCcw7KnEAI5a6-CPVG3TKRt1cOILwqQ-WBeRMG/s2048/48413527486_f3c09bcc68_o%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8QZPZjFFGvnEexmIYkz8qYsUzq4DtDWKOsGr83nduw-vwi3T0zfSSarg-a96z6gHIF_foPP5URwXYoo0Gd2QV2hRaJKAbjWhwBRLyZzHbpp-G_Z4EgDLH8jaUmYYolQ-IpFCVKkD6AM8SzT_3KDOLuyCcw7KnEAI5a6-CPVG3TKRt1cOILwqQ-WBeRMG/w640-h426/48413527486_f3c09bcc68_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hairy Woodpecker and Northern Flicker feeding from Suet Cylinder Log Feeder</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>How to feed Bark Butter to your backyard birds</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Our original Jim's Birdacious Bark Butter can be fed in a number of ways including our specially designed Bark Butter Feeders, which are made specifically for easy Bark Butter application, cleaning, and feeding for the birds. The Suet Cylinder Log Feeder is one of our most popular feeders as it holds suet cylinders or suet balls inside, while Bark Butter can be spread in the grooves on the outside of the feeder. The number one benefit of adding Bark Butter to your backyard bird feeding menu, is that it turns your surroundings in to bird feeders. Grab your tub of Bark Butter & a fork, smear a generous amount on to a tree and crosshatch with fork prongs, and watch as the birds investigate and chow down. <br /><br /></li><li>Bark Butter Bits and Bugs & Bits can be fed on their own, or mixed with your favourite WBU seed blends and offered in tray feeders such as our WBU Spiral Treat Tray, or Dinner Bell Feeder. Bark Butter Bits can also be offered in feeders designed to hold shelled peanuts, like our Peanut Ball Feeder (pictured above). In some instances birds will take food from your hand, Bark Butter Bits are the perfect size and shape for this fun activity, and their great taste will keep the birds coming back for more.<br /><br /></li></ul><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRIxtLF_DIDeUnkp43MlKlAul7NrAnAFXpFItJQr-ikyaNVoGF5gxJyGij79Jl5QuuDsZ9ydM7GokWk1v8jIH6nF1UhLV_PZaorS8PaHzz4ellyGi35ixcl7qH323tAEOLbXkmtWsqE7dJ30ltx04RUPk7PpMADcWIDl1Gp8YYZRPvSzUuAeBnSgWskb1/s5120/52719899852_3a0d58e847_5k%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3413" data-original-width="5120" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRIxtLF_DIDeUnkp43MlKlAul7NrAnAFXpFItJQr-ikyaNVoGF5gxJyGij79Jl5QuuDsZ9ydM7GokWk1v8jIH6nF1UhLV_PZaorS8PaHzz4ellyGi35ixcl7qH323tAEOLbXkmtWsqE7dJ30ltx04RUPk7PpMADcWIDl1Gp8YYZRPvSzUuAeBnSgWskb1/w640-h426/52719899852_3a0d58e847_5k%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Creeper eating Hot Pepper Bark Butter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Offer Bark Butter when feeders aren't an option<br /></b>Maybe you don't want to, or aren't able to, use feeders but still want to offer the birds a treat now and then. Bark Butter is the perfect option in these situations. Bark Butter is a highly nutritious, palatable, and spreadable suet created with the intention of attracting the shy Brown Creeper. It is made of pure rendered beef suet, peanut butter, corn, and added calcium for an extra boost. Not only does this recipe attract Brown Creepers, but it also attracts several other species who are not regular suet feeder visitors such as Grey Catbirds, Northern Mockingbirds, and Northern Cardinals. Since it's easily spreadable, Bark Butter essentially turns your surroundings in to bird feeders. Grab your tub of Bark Butter & a fork, smear a generous amount on to a tree and crosshatch with fork prongs, and watch as the birds investigate and chow down. Bonus: Bark Butter makes a great "first food" for young birds during nesting season!<br /><br /></p><div><b>Put Bark Butter </b><i style="font-weight: bold;">everywhere</i><b> during stormy weather<br /></b>Though birds are built to fly in all types of weather, extreme winds can be dangerous to even the most agile of birds, particularly in cold weather. When it gets really windy, birds will typically hunker down and remain in one spot for as long as they can to avoid their feathers blowing away from their body and losing insulation. To help them stay put, birds sink their talons into or around their chosen perch and hold their feathers down tight to help keep the cold out. There are also some cavity dwellers, like woodpeckers, who will seek shelter in known cavities until the storm passes. But all of this staying put robs birds of their ability to feed, which drains their energy that they so desperately need during this type of weather. Spreading Bark Butter (WBU's spreadable suet) on trees and other surfaces around your yard can help the birds get the nourishment they need without having to travel far to get it. Bark Butter is also handy for days when you need to take your feeders down due to high winds, that way the birds can still feed even without access to bird feeders.</div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-76341151779936836212023-11-29T00:00:00.021-05:002023-11-29T08:43:35.856-05:00Seeing the Bigger Picture: Wildlife Edition <p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">Many of us connect with nature. We belong to a community that recognizes the intrinsic value of nature and how it contributes to our own well-being. The interest, passion and education that can come along with cultivating biodiversity, observing nature and experiencing joy from what it has to offer. However, there is something else that often pops into the conversation about animals in our environments. It is the narrative of "nuisance" animals, animals that we don't like observing as much as others, animals that perhaps we fear or perhaps view as an inconvenience, a pest. We stop seeing their wild and start viewing them as </span><i style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">other, </i><g class="gr_ gr_1302 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear Grammar only-del replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="1302" id="1302" style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">an agitation</g><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"> or a threat. Quite often, this happens when animals are widespread or common. Think of the squirrels, the raccoons, the skunks, the groundhogs that are woven into our lives, even in urban areas. Think of the grackles, the starlings, birds that even bird lovers cast away as unwanted or unwelcome. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">Humans do have a tendency to value what is rare. These species are common, and perhaps frustrating or invoke fear. This can be referred to as </span><b style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">the tragedy of becoming common. </b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">This occurs in urbanized areas where wild animals become seen as pests or even pets. I just wanted to take a minute here to remind us all how loveable and important all animals are.</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVJa2WDHSsx7_H4NO0F37s-C7UOPBuKcX4pNPwPQdZQammdYFmI3xQTzSWGwpACcliTq4JuK3F5bhIF1OOrHkOpCiUT_DkAw3FvqPdEAReC1FA-QfLbjwAiErWvUlFwO-CpEY5e-ItHAV5QMwjof07CwscGe_iPDcvdxOgm677V5biuloRtiVicP9Kw9Y/s4650/51187327726_ae628417dc_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3100" data-original-width="4650" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVJa2WDHSsx7_H4NO0F37s-C7UOPBuKcX4pNPwPQdZQammdYFmI3xQTzSWGwpACcliTq4JuK3F5bhIF1OOrHkOpCiUT_DkAw3FvqPdEAReC1FA-QfLbjwAiErWvUlFwO-CpEY5e-ItHAV5QMwjof07CwscGe_iPDcvdxOgm677V5biuloRtiVicP9Kw9Y/w640-h426/51187327726_ae628417dc_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Cottontail. Photo by Heather Kerrison. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This spring the owner of Wild Birds Unlimited Barrie and Newmarket, Kristen Martyn, posted an adorable video of a little Eastern Cottontail bunny with this caption:</span><br /><br /></span><span face="-apple-system, "system-ui", "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><i>Why do the things that destroy my garden have to be so darn cute?! We always get baby cottontails in our garden by the house. This year there was a litter of 7. I think the mother uses the same spot every year and our front garden as a nursery. They are so darn cute! However, rabbits are probably the most destructive animals in our gardens. They eat so many of the plants. Probably what drives me the most crazy is when they bite the flowers off my favourite plants and don’t even eat them. Feels like a personal attack 🤣 However, they are apart of our ecosystem and the plants grow back (most of the time). So our garden co-exists with these heartbreakers. In return they support the foxes, coyotes and hawks that we also adore. We saw a hawk grab one last week 😬 and our kiddos saw trophic levels interacting.</i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span face="-apple-system, "system-ui", "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I thought this was such an important reflection. You can acknowledge the frustration while noting the bigger picture. Your garden, and this cottontail, are part of something larger. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are not without fault in the equation. Numerous human activities cause strife, hardship, and harm to other species including roadways and vehicular collisions, unsecured garbage and recycling that animals become entangled in, the introduction of pesticides and other chemicals to habitats, the clear cutting or destruction of critical habitat - I could go on! Despite how it feels when your garden is under siege - it's not personal. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">My hope is that </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">whenever you find yourself thinking of the inconvenience an animal may cause you, to consider how humans threaten their homes and safety. They are just doing their best to adapt to an ever urbanizing world. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">This doesn't mean we can't take steps to problem solve. We have an entire <a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/problem-solving">Problem Solving Page</a> that can help you address issues with Starlings, Raccoons, Hawks, Pigeons, and more. The intention when, for example, taking measures to stop starlings from visiting some or all of your feeders, is not to harm starlings but rather to create an environment where as many birds as possible can have a 'turn'. Starlings can and will ground feed, and can 'bully' other birds from accessing feeders. The same goes for excluding squirrels. It doesn't mean they get nothing, it more means there will be more opportunities for the greatest amount of species. As the intelligent species, we can innovatively accommodate and get around frustrations when it comes to wildlife. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><i>With respect for all species, </i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><i>Heather</i></span></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-67825522526501491472023-11-14T09:42:00.000-05:002023-11-15T10:07:17.729-05:00Holiday Gift Guide 2023 <p><span style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">It's that time of year again! Each year, we get really excited about all of the birds we get to experience throughout the winter in southern Ontario AND all of the seasonal products that help us engage with them in special ways. We are going to overview some of our favourite winter products that make for amazing gifts for everyone from the experienced backyard birder to the person who has never fed wild birds before but could certainly benefit from the hobby. Feel free to send this to someone unsolicited if they need a small</span><b style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> *nudge*</i></b><span style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;">in the right direction for their holiday shopping. </span></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">Our favourite gifts and holiday products include:</p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/bird-feeder-gift-sets">Share the Joy Boxes:</a> </b><span style="font-weight: inherit;">These boxes are a perfect 'starter' pack for someone you'd like to give the gift of birding to OR a great way to bundle seasonal items for the bird lover in your life. You can start someone off with a feeder and various food options to try with their backyard birds to experiment with! </span></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="border: 0px; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-radius: 0px; border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto 0.5em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><tbody style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEbMCfuccs1eEKv_1YipjuJQVcWfmmwaFpCIkWdOtsuZSg2TCsiCgGvTDGMhL7pyo6T3mcVIGxal4Rc33UUQ4_RHKKHtMxn3pEwMGK-Rw2eXAXjpzf9zJLvcOtU9vn4T5C2awJMhUgc3sy2OnTnDKWgZqUYxSJ_HPwUYQIbeOpFznqxtlv0xQjFXi/s4898/49067419546_15b030cd2f_o.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEbMCfuccs1eEKv_1YipjuJQVcWfmmwaFpCIkWdOtsuZSg2TCsiCgGvTDGMhL7pyo6T3mcVIGxal4Rc33UUQ4_RHKKHtMxn3pEwMGK-Rw2eXAXjpzf9zJLvcOtU9vn4T5C2awJMhUgc3sy2OnTnDKWgZqUYxSJ_HPwUYQIbeOpFznqxtlv0xQjFXi/w640-h426/49067419546_15b030cd2f_o.jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none !important; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static !important; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td class="tr-caption" style="border-spacing: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 12.6px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-weight: inherit;">Buttons the seed character + Black-capped Chickadee. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </span><br /><br /><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/seed-characters" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Seasonal Seed Characters: </a>along with Buttons (pictured above), we have several other adorable seasonal seed characters, including Preston the Penguin and Olive the Owl. </span></li></ul><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/seed-cylinders/cranberry-wreath"><span style="color: #4c6878; font-family: inherit;"><span style="border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; max-width: 100%;"><b>Cranberry Wreath</b></span></span>:</a> The seasonal wreaths are such a fun way to decorate AND feed the birds at the same time. You can set them up either on an APS pole, within a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/specialty-feeders/wreath-feeder" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">wreath feeder</a>, OR right on a tree for some lovely views! These feeders are packed with pecans, peanuts, black oil and sunflower chips, safflower and cranberries to attract a large variety of birds. </span></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="border: 0px; clear: both; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YGiV3R3eQd4q5QG11p6F1hjpRkZzUrWyefSpcmJk9N7fcg-uqEJdatRsW7QMptFvutUP2yg3Wp4e3AJQUQbyrXcJmAhdsOzKMxmEKF2C8jMD8KlO7l78nosEY8wOdPkyqTLn9ENtciduTmEpvKrEX3tTyk8SYQoTV68-M3lYGPzpbEnMyfBneEeH/s4898/49025076173_167571f939_o%20(2).jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 1em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3YGiV3R3eQd4q5QG11p6F1hjpRkZzUrWyefSpcmJk9N7fcg-uqEJdatRsW7QMptFvutUP2yg3Wp4e3AJQUQbyrXcJmAhdsOzKMxmEKF2C8jMD8KlO7l78nosEY8wOdPkyqTLn9ENtciduTmEpvKrEX3tTyk8SYQoTV68-M3lYGPzpbEnMyfBneEeH/w640-h426/49025076173_167571f939_o%20(2).jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none !important; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static !important; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="border: 0px; clear: both; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHO6Azsc7Oqs4_cF_0L953GBHYBdl1TgmDdyX8g8lsaVLCslweMCQ741QdmcMhQo0DlebU9N8KS4PZ6L2_XOLM7sRGbLLCC3nqJ-wR1vo2TGVz3_T-4aQalHgvC5mgNYaPkObTyYBMxSEtn4i4mXS7BQdjQ-FdEHCGAxGMF8RDIOGis9HziijvYABy/s4898/50781570471_ca75435c3b_o.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 1em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHO6Azsc7Oqs4_cF_0L953GBHYBdl1TgmDdyX8g8lsaVLCslweMCQ741QdmcMhQo0DlebU9N8KS4PZ6L2_XOLM7sRGbLLCC3nqJ-wR1vo2TGVz3_T-4aQalHgvC5mgNYaPkObTyYBMxSEtn4i4mXS7BQdjQ-FdEHCGAxGMF8RDIOGis9HziijvYABy/w640-h426/50781570471_ca75435c3b_o.jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none !important; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static !important; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div>Here you can see both the feeder on a tree as functional decoration, as well as in a wreath feeder. Pairing both together makes for a great gift! </div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/shop/bird-food/bird-seed/winter-superblend"><b>Winter Superblend Seed:</b></a><span style="font-weight: inherit;"> </span></span>Give your birds a little extra help with seasonally-savvy feeding! During the winter’s short daylight hours and colder weather, birds need every bit of nutrition available to get through the long night. Winter SuperBlend® can be used on its own or mixed into your normal seed blend. Packed with sunflower chips, pecans, peanuts, tree nuts, Bark Butter Bits and safflower, this blend is a nutritional powerhouse right when birds need it most.</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/window-feeder" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Window Feeders:</a> window feeders are SO special because they provide such incredible, close up views of birds. Pair with one of our bird coffee mugs + <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/gifts/home/balance-medium-blend-whole-bean-coffee" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">bird friendly coffee</a> and gift someone the perfect morning. </span></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="border: 0px; clear: both; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61orWAjhAka-K-vps6R4gIdjQc9xmtNgKhun0Fau2PcNgg0WF4O13gvhliDrXRgGGOwc4yyXjfEHayJnsbA51_kkpilAg-EpJ1ZQzSS34GjFfkP0dLWwyFQzgjBxIH10OEFtolvq-Gmc7waBd76XjiGjJKG57cECcfmPL99CAsVuwWJaEyIT0EdJV/s5472/51303519221_a55ac8112b_o.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 1em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61orWAjhAka-K-vps6R4gIdjQc9xmtNgKhun0Fau2PcNgg0WF4O13gvhliDrXRgGGOwc4yyXjfEHayJnsbA51_kkpilAg-EpJ1ZQzSS34GjFfkP0dLWwyFQzgjBxIH10OEFtolvq-Gmc7waBd76XjiGjJKG57cECcfmPL99CAsVuwWJaEyIT0EdJV/w640-h426/51303519221_a55ac8112b_o.jpg" style="border: none; display: inline; float: none !important; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: static !important; vertical-align: baseline;" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">A male Cardinal eating mealworms out of a window Feeder. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. </div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/gifts/home/balance-medium-blend-whole-bean-coffee" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Bird Friendly Coffee</a>: the stocking stuffer that could!! To learn more about how shade-grown coffee benefits birds globally and how your morning cup can contribute to saving the songbirds, read our full blog on the topic <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2020/01/morning-coffee-with-birds-or-for-them.html" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">here. </a></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bird watching is such a gift in itself, and the perfect thing to pass onto someone you love. <span style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">There are positive mental health benefits associated with seeing wild birds. Science has confirmed that having birds around your home can act as a sort of preventative health care, creating happier places to live.</span></div></div><br /><br /><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Happy holidays and happy gift giving! To yourself, the birds, and others. <br /><br /><br /><br /><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Warmly, </i></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></i></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></i></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></i></div><div style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><i style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Heather</i></div></td></tr></tbody></table>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-20686668488162693392023-11-09T16:10:00.004-05:002023-11-09T16:10:41.901-05:00Attracting Purple Finches to Your Yard<p> It's that time of year again when Purple Finches show up in larger numbers to grace us with their charm and beauty! These stunning finches are happy to become regular feeder visitors when the offerings are to their liking. Read below to learn how to attract Purple Finches to your yard and keep them coming all season long.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrAjb71xo_fI85tZptD_ViUf7gCOsNFcl-kdBH_AcIDHGVZC_G4Fwa5JzvoUYni61rbXdiBYDXprJx5EBKqY-F6umQf9n7FG536EcY6E9bsvA-Xym9Txz7hquVM4N8SuaaiCAYXzF70kgtLb0e7hKlkIz4wMn7ar7_3eFaPeOUZFF4KVxVLJ7gJcSf6P1/s2048/120599938_10164119997740363_1058828474293478422_n%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1419" data-original-width="2048" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrAjb71xo_fI85tZptD_ViUf7gCOsNFcl-kdBH_AcIDHGVZC_G4Fwa5JzvoUYni61rbXdiBYDXprJx5EBKqY-F6umQf9n7FG536EcY6E9bsvA-Xym9Txz7hquVM4N8SuaaiCAYXzF70kgtLb0e7hKlkIz4wMn7ar7_3eFaPeOUZFF4KVxVLJ7gJcSf6P1/w640-h444/120599938_10164119997740363_1058828474293478422_n%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Finch (male)</td></tr></tbody></table><div><div><br /><b>Offer their favourite foods</b></div><div>Purple Finches have a preference for smaller seeds such as nyjer and sunflower chips (Finch Blend is a favourite!), and will readily visit feeders that are stocked with fresh seed. Preferred feeder styles are finch & tube feeders, but they will happily perch on tray, hopper, or cylinder feeders as well. Finches can be quite gregarious at feeders, often fighting over perches and feeders. Providing multiple feeders can help decrease competition between them. Some Purple Finch favourites to grab at WBU include:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Finch Blend, Nyjer Seed, or Sunflower Chips</li><li>No-Mess Blends</li><li>Safflower seed (loose or in cylinder form)</li><li>Supreme Cylinder, Cranberry Cylinder, No-Mess Cylinder</li><li>Cranberry Wreath & Cranberry Bell<br /><br />Find all of these selections in store or <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food" target="_blank">online</a>.</li></ul></div><div><b><br />Provide fresh water</b></div><div>Birds rely on snow consumption and naturally open sources of water for hydration throughout the winter months. Open water is harder to come by when the temperature gets below freezing, and snow takes a lot of energy to convert to water, so having a reliable source of drinking water available can mean the difference between life or death for some birds when the weather gets particularly intolerable. Heated bird baths can be purchased as a single unit and are simple to attach to a pole system, deck railing, or on stand-alone poles, and are kept just above freezing by an internal heater that is not exposed to the birds. Alternatively, heaters are available to add to existing baths that are large enough to accommodate them. Either are great options to ensure your backyard birds have a supply of fresh water all winter long. You may be surprised by who you see at your heated bath - even owls have been known to frequent them!</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjybgVr77iTGR-DjC9ET5KjPhUOY1Skn4wiavYeGlQunjlxydyqBs3pAcNhEpcaLhonj2-NiSYQ4Tch4L6hyphenhyphenmgdmq7EFbbfcyDp5pSKfWxk66nnLcs5R4V-0cNAcboS3TAEZNHSoarZB-SLsV3nfUcgZ_3iEpJKy2AxBvJ2R0lSLd3sG7x7kSGdF0T9noe/s2048/48941591568_30dd029778_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjybgVr77iTGR-DjC9ET5KjPhUOY1Skn4wiavYeGlQunjlxydyqBs3pAcNhEpcaLhonj2-NiSYQ4Tch4L6hyphenhyphenmgdmq7EFbbfcyDp5pSKfWxk66nnLcs5R4V-0cNAcboS3TAEZNHSoarZB-SLsV3nfUcgZ_3iEpJKy2AxBvJ2R0lSLd3sG7x7kSGdF0T9noe/w640-h426/48941591568_30dd029778_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Finches (females) feeding on Safflower Cylinder</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b>Clean your equipment often</b></div><div><div>In the winter, birds - especially finches - congregate at feeders in large numbers. When these large crowds gather and things they've touched aren't cleaned regularly, bacteria and illnesses can spread like wildfire. Be sure to sanitize your feeders once per month at the very least, and immediately after seeing a possibly unhealthy bird visit your feeding station, or if there has been particularly wet weather as it can cause seed to mold and spoil quickly. Some illnesses like House Finch Eye Disease and Avian Pox can be quite noticeable in birds, but some aren't as easily spotted so it's best to keep a tight cleaning schedule just to be safe. Keeping feeders clean also ensures food stays fresher longer, and extends the life of the feeders themselves. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2021/04/sick-birds-at-feeders.html" target="_blank">here</a> for more information on bird illnesses and proper cleaning protocol. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Create storm-ready habitat</b></div><div>Creating habitat that supports bird life in your yard year-round is the most crucial aspect of backyard birding. You can do this in several ways in addition to offering food & water, including <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/08/5-berry-bushes-for-birds.html" target="_blank">planting and growing native plants</a> that offer shelter as well as food (seeds, fruits), allowing dead trees to stand when safe to do so (creates shelter for cavity dwellers), creating brush piles with fallen branches, leaves, and rocks, and <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/upcycling-how-to-reuse-and-re-purpose.html" target="_blank">repurposing Christmas trees</a> into extra shelter around your yard.</div></div><div><br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8II4-ML4WemqZ05nV_k4_DqH2y-PKyxDFaSeEpDRm4xKGhQi6PbVbdhyIlFx1EWwk7blLL4okBW7V4Inp8koQV_aLyCWXSEkWpl8UUJSinAadA8tDpZHZuVHFE2oH5elp-NtSuOXay2-iBswuS2J6uFfNKmdY0y7kup9uKghJ3NnbUAg6ebgc0IZstzY/s960/296012749_5316823355073254_4390062505634248678_n%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8II4-ML4WemqZ05nV_k4_DqH2y-PKyxDFaSeEpDRm4xKGhQi6PbVbdhyIlFx1EWwk7blLL4okBW7V4Inp8koQV_aLyCWXSEkWpl8UUJSinAadA8tDpZHZuVHFE2oH5elp-NtSuOXay2-iBswuS2J6uFfNKmdY0y7kup9uKghJ3NnbUAg6ebgc0IZstzY/w640-h360/296012749_5316823355073254_4390062505634248678_n%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: Purple Finch (male); Right: House Finch (male)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><div><b>Bonus tip!</b> Male Purple Finches and male House Finches can be tough to tell apart at feeders, especially at a distance. Here are some tips to help you with identifying them at your feeders:<br /><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Colour: House Finches have reddish-orange colouring contentrated on the head and breast, while Purple Finches have reddish-purple or "raspberry" colouring which spreads to most of the body.</li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Head & body shape: House Finches are slender with large rounded heads; in general, Purple Finches are slightly larger than House Finches in overall size, and sport a slight crest at the top of their heads.</li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Beak: Both species have beaks designed for eating seeds, but House Finches have a smaller beak with a more distinct curve to the upper mandible, while Purple Finches have a more prominent beak with a less noticeable curve in the upper mandible.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div><b>Happy trails!</b></div><div><b>- Shayna</b></div></div></div><div><br /></div></div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-24892150723003802602023-11-01T17:27:00.000-04:002023-11-01T17:27:05.253-04:00What Birding Can Teach Us <p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As with many hobbies, being a bird watcher means you have embarked on a journey of education. However, there is so much more that birding teaches us that reaches far beyond knowing how to identify a wide range of species by sight or sound.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEief7g9XaXVIRWBRvvJjSxNU_nTL6nkQa268DdA28Oy3u5BD5jWePtAt6qEVn16ASn1fXgIxIuxG1QnXyFx04vR9VjrJxgeSNW395egyraUmZ9wQcSBoV2B1CCkUFNnTtug8NAU2NyieZRNCPVHkdMBFIQT83IEn1HHfhKkadMBXB_ikDzOWykjZ-ROhTk/s5191/51174593907_6dd9179ec4_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3610" data-original-width="5191" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEief7g9XaXVIRWBRvvJjSxNU_nTL6nkQa268DdA28Oy3u5BD5jWePtAt6qEVn16ASn1fXgIxIuxG1QnXyFx04vR9VjrJxgeSNW395egyraUmZ9wQcSBoV2B1CCkUFNnTtug8NAU2NyieZRNCPVHkdMBFIQT83IEn1HHfhKkadMBXB_ikDzOWykjZ-ROhTk/w640-h446/51174593907_6dd9179ec4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evening Grosbeak. Photo by Shayna Hartley. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It also teaches us that:</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Patience is a virtue: </b>you must be patient to bird watch. Sometimes years will go by without seeing a species you covet. Sometimes you’ll need to sit quietly for long periods of time and simply observe.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Learning is a </span>lifelong</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b> journey: </b>no matter how much you know about bird species, identification, or life history traits, there’s always something new to learn. Information changes. Science evolves. The scientific community learns new information and passes it along. It’s a never ending journey of discovery.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhays7rQUpCla8hLeKr_N7IQmq_1XJnLC0-qi1vgDWTjRJSVdaCJy4za9Qg-_nlMEzT6VvWBs9RCnovxMUSnzziy3Uf2bY1BroLaFGnDXDr8dPI5rNRuc_QsP_KViUySYlwRbj7QqWzA5d-OctOC9H48pZpWk0OT_85xNP-8L4FvRnhFEvbAdBlj2KsM/s5472/40850346903_652c59ca06_o%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhays7rQUpCla8hLeKr_N7IQmq_1XJnLC0-qi1vgDWTjRJSVdaCJy4za9Qg-_nlMEzT6VvWBs9RCnovxMUSnzziy3Uf2bY1BroLaFGnDXDr8dPI5rNRuc_QsP_KViUySYlwRbj7QqWzA5d-OctOC9H48pZpWk0OT_85xNP-8L4FvRnhFEvbAdBlj2KsM/w640-h426/40850346903_652c59ca06_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Don't take things for granted: </b>perhaps one that some of us birders need to be reminded of on occasion. Just because we see species like Blue Jays, Cardinals, and Chickadees all the time does not mean they are any less beautiful, interesting, or enjoyable to observe.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTZ6F6NZZvCleekUdtzs_FeIn5FYTEapU1YqFUip7CbPOP-BH11-zPBtwB7ZHknAMp3hO1i0aM3Dr3GGjT1gVPNl3BjFb5qJZbBR5DITQAuqvZ7eSuDpOi0JySyQ7ooSc6BGOdNLVsnrZTOY4SFaqPZMueHFSi8GdkPhVACYM-_F5ZelcWjh7QKZRkSM/s3800/49290394637_1a9090e4d2_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2369" data-original-width="3800" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTZ6F6NZZvCleekUdtzs_FeIn5FYTEapU1YqFUip7CbPOP-BH11-zPBtwB7ZHknAMp3hO1i0aM3Dr3GGjT1gVPNl3BjFb5qJZbBR5DITQAuqvZ7eSuDpOi0JySyQ7ooSc6BGOdNLVsnrZTOY4SFaqPZMueHFSi8GdkPhVACYM-_F5ZelcWjh7QKZRkSM/w640-h398/49290394637_1a9090e4d2_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowy Owl. Photo by Shayna Hartley. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Life is full of surprises: </b>when you least expect it, birds will surprise you. A Snowy Owl perched on a hydro pole. A Pileated Woodpecker on a decaying tree. A flock of Evening Grosbeaks landing in your yard. You can’t predict these happenings but you can relish in them when they happen.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't know about you, but birding expands my capacity to be still, to appreciate, to listen. It is such a valuable hobbie for so many reasons. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As always, happy birding! </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br />Warmly, </i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Heather</i></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><br /></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-1174174891288455682023-10-20T11:27:00.002-04:002023-10-20T11:27:53.295-04:00Birds To Look For This Winter: Finch Forecast Breakdown <p>Each year, the renowned <a href="https://finchnetwork.org/winter-finch-forecast-2023-2024">Winter Finch Forecast</a> lets us all know which birds we can expect to see on the move throughout the coming winter months. Sadly, this summer we lost the original creator of the Finch Forecast, <a href="https://finchnetwork.org/a-passing-of-a-legend">Ron Pittaway</a>. Thankfully, his collaborator Tyler Hoar continues to bring us these well anticipated reports. </p><p>There's going to be a lot of movement this year! <span style="font-family: inherit;">There are several areas lacking food supply including cones in the Boreal forest, however areas such as the boreal forest closest to Lake Superior have excellent pine crop, tree seed crop, and fruiting crop. This largely determines the movement patterns of winter finches.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">There is a forecast for each species, we will give a very brief overview of what we can expect for each in Southern Ontario and what you can offer in anticipation. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzyNp01Iyu2SiiH0n85L7b8_RAa5saDi8IFI3W3DHX-xeSGeyxyKpg8mHVkNA0ElPhHhfzB56Lw31qaOMZLYLXz5AGPkX0TRZpx3M95ymwl8NUU6i9BFvBYlau4BX15Y0fApElkfWXDqKzH09OI1WR1Y_qWbOhP8jEr_6NU3beJ2ho7ShwuNW65LoAkM/s4898/50843620687_2245d3ddb1_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzyNp01Iyu2SiiH0n85L7b8_RAa5saDi8IFI3W3DHX-xeSGeyxyKpg8mHVkNA0ElPhHhfzB56Lw31qaOMZLYLXz5AGPkX0TRZpx3M95ymwl8NUU6i9BFvBYlau4BX15Y0fApElkfWXDqKzH09OI1WR1Y_qWbOhP8jEr_6NU3beJ2ho7ShwuNW65LoAkM/w640-h426/50843620687_2245d3ddb1_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine Grosbeak. Photo by Kristen Martyn. <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><u><b>1. Pine Grosbeaks: </b></u></span>Due to great food availability, most Pine Grosbeaks are anticipated to stay in the eastern boreal forests, with some coming to their traditional wintering grounds in southeastern Canada.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They enjoy sunflower seed, safflower seed, and shelled peanuts.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizYXCfdepeNJpNNVLlPwtaO528pgaMLUYRwxC779jiEgISitc7fG4ZYnfftJ9jXAyxy6LET4JhcTHk8sUqhzJ-Cf_-TuY-pAubewXtOssG2WA2-HZnf2lljNPlr1E0SKfuMgCHqJc_JUYHrmx5EZEG840Uxwk62Y1_4kKFjMTtAN016gJkq4NnEsmznUc/s4851/51853508149_5a13195978_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3585" data-original-width="4851" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizYXCfdepeNJpNNVLlPwtaO528pgaMLUYRwxC779jiEgISitc7fG4ZYnfftJ9jXAyxy6LET4JhcTHk8sUqhzJ-Cf_-TuY-pAubewXtOssG2WA2-HZnf2lljNPlr1E0SKfuMgCHqJc_JUYHrmx5EZEG840Uxwk62Y1_4kKFjMTtAN016gJkq4NnEsmznUc/w640-h472/51853508149_5a13195978_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Finch. Photo by Shayna Hartley. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><b><u>2. Purple Finches:<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></u></b></span>Many Purple Finches are expected to overwinter in southeastern Canada.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>At feeders, they enjoy sunflower seed and Finch Blend.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvc8MvtmFAkM50B5-iiy1_FYhBTAJpJhXBoAlkVfnUyst4uA2_vuHmlW5LoaHv4s0B-XcOlCzRrNsHZ7pokoxkVBLddBua3fmm-sgRilhkDCIn4JGYD2hrW0tLvTbrpCXG0SF_orbyegViv5zkDJHgq8Wg22JxikGUIxLhtAJPBjO4WsEmn2glhGGpUc/s4898/50776912883_8036d5f4f6_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvc8MvtmFAkM50B5-iiy1_FYhBTAJpJhXBoAlkVfnUyst4uA2_vuHmlW5LoaHv4s0B-XcOlCzRrNsHZ7pokoxkVBLddBua3fmm-sgRilhkDCIn4JGYD2hrW0tLvTbrpCXG0SF_orbyegViv5zkDJHgq8Wg22JxikGUIxLhtAJPBjO4WsEmn2glhGGpUc/w640-h426/50776912883_8036d5f4f6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Redpolls. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p><b><u>3. Common Redpolls:</u></b> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Redpolls are expected to fly south out of the boreal forest in moderate numbers. At feeders they enjoy hyper seed, and really enjoy tray feeders if you can offer them! Watch for them in weedy fields.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWepi4U08mM9SJ0IWqwe2dhLe1Tajz6NBWYdzFX1u1l2pm-8j011OkMnyWf43k_m24n23EdTjncRWoGXA-V8-e13rahRBKFlt65F8qN5t32MwmXsKZosysE0Uz2uE3lr6O_9slbsJERmFw6omj_eOEZZrrD5K2oQFZZzu6feojdsJVIZxvqflnXtN7tF4/s4899/50788443216_b5b9f62980_o%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3266" data-original-width="4899" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWepi4U08mM9SJ0IWqwe2dhLe1Tajz6NBWYdzFX1u1l2pm-8j011OkMnyWf43k_m24n23EdTjncRWoGXA-V8-e13rahRBKFlt65F8qN5t32MwmXsKZosysE0Uz2uE3lr6O_9slbsJERmFw6omj_eOEZZrrD5K2oQFZZzu6feojdsJVIZxvqflnXtN7tF4/w640-h426/50788443216_b5b9f62980_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine Siskins. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p><b><u>4.</u></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u> Pine Siskins: </u></b>Significant numbers of Pine Siskins left the boreal forest in mid-September. Expect a moderate to strong southward movement - into our courters!! - this fall. These birds have a preference for smaller seeds such as nyjer and sunflower chips (<a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed/finch-blend-bird-seed"><span class="s1" style="color: #dca10d;"><b>Finch Blend</b></span></a> is a favourite!), and will readily visit feeders that are stocked with fresh seed. Preferred feeder styles are finch & tube feeders, but they will happily perch on tray, hopper, or cylinder feeders as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H2xI6Sef4NnH45wrXWpoFh1pSNky2d98PeKuoYvI64i5xJq4n1-apIzijalleDX7n6xBBqrZ0DddMG3mCXEbzcGFQGd8i_AYHH-XoF8KEdVsemYvSpiB3tIfApP_6XeFw4gaL-t8s25jkR6DqRmLS2KEgnAmuyMfqunhV0gwEf64USnDlcmY2eL8Zp0/s4898/50577961436_9d03e03562_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7H2xI6Sef4NnH45wrXWpoFh1pSNky2d98PeKuoYvI64i5xJq4n1-apIzijalleDX7n6xBBqrZ0DddMG3mCXEbzcGFQGd8i_AYHH-XoF8KEdVsemYvSpiB3tIfApP_6XeFw4gaL-t8s25jkR6DqRmLS2KEgnAmuyMfqunhV0gwEf64USnDlcmY2eL8Zp0/w640-h426/50577961436_9d03e03562_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evening Grosbeaks. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p><b><u>5. Evening Grosbeaks:</u></b> <span style="font-family: inherit;">There is great availability of berry and seed crops in the boreal forest. However, in northwestern Ontario they may move out of the boreal forest looking for food sources further south. Evening Grosbeaks travel in flocks, so they prefer hopper and tray-style feeders where a number of birds can feed together at the same time. However, they will ultimately feed anywhere they can perch and even enjoy eating from cylinder feeders. <span style="text-align: justify;">They eat a wide range of foods and enjoy black oil sunflower seed, sunflower chips, safflower seeds or cylinders and Bark Butter Bits. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wishing you all the winter finches!! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Warmly, </i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Heather</i></span></p><p><br /></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-3439576843409717202023-10-05T13:53:00.000-04:002023-10-05T13:53:50.759-04:00How to Clean Your Bird Feeders (and Why You Should!)<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdDUcz-kcmrbSKIXsjBAsIRLCctsXW6gzGBjgFPSIsf8vodPpsBMXddxx6bfl0I-uxOyk2fAF2LBW-rok4CfHzPqyr8sqJ-5Cxo3Whyphenhypheni9d6V5cge_7qaAKpqxcjymf1VXH4owL5lFovSc3J6y7rVArU4JqkiE81f1mmaR6x9_fn6ZH9QWYnFnXPGpJPSE/s2048/48941714913_686042bff5_5k.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdDUcz-kcmrbSKIXsjBAsIRLCctsXW6gzGBjgFPSIsf8vodPpsBMXddxx6bfl0I-uxOyk2fAF2LBW-rok4CfHzPqyr8sqJ-5Cxo3Whyphenhypheni9d6V5cge_7qaAKpqxcjymf1VXH4owL5lFovSc3J6y7rVArU4JqkiE81f1mmaR6x9_fn6ZH9QWYnFnXPGpJPSE/w640-h426/48941714913_686042bff5_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Goldfinch and Northern Cardinal feeding from <a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/squirrel-resistant-feeders" target="_blank">Eliminator</a> feeder</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><div><b>Why cleaning feeders is important</b><br />No one wants to do it. It's not fun, it can be time consuming, and sometimes it's just gross, but maintaining clean bird feeders is one of the most important things you can do for many reasons. Cleaning your feeders regularly (at least once per month) helps limit the spread of disease, bacteria, and parasites, helps keep seed fresh for a longer period of time by decreasing the chance of mold growth, reduces the risk of feeder malfunction, and increases the lifespan of the feeder. Keeping your feeders clean will lead to increased bird activity. Birds (much like us) enjoy high quality food, served in a clean environment. Clean feeders are much more likely to attract a variety of beautiful birds to choose your backyard as their go-to dining area.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4BoCpHTd2pALyrM_jFj1zfNL53NGl2J7eSJpK_c6vvs6MeqN4O8ILSSuQFpBJJyU1-8tRL3NU5zT-G3J2OSNFdnXRMEJYlyCW8VTNhnLUjohkaTL8iH-QF3vOusqMyae-4ruSakCL8hsNJFaaXgJkG4a06m6b1A3QK9Z8fIUVqSKeH5OvAE-LOad5L6J/s2048/31661517874_fd0ff84fd1_o%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4BoCpHTd2pALyrM_jFj1zfNL53NGl2J7eSJpK_c6vvs6MeqN4O8ILSSuQFpBJJyU1-8tRL3NU5zT-G3J2OSNFdnXRMEJYlyCW8VTNhnLUjohkaTL8iH-QF3vOusqMyae-4ruSakCL8hsNJFaaXgJkG4a06m6b1A3QK9Z8fIUVqSKeH5OvAE-LOad5L6J/w640-h426/31661517874_fd0ff84fd1_o%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House Finch with suspected House Finch Eye Disease<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div>Many illnesses are contracted through bird-to-bird contact, or through contaminated surfaces. Because of this, it is extremely important to thoroughly clean and disinfect all feeders, birdbaths, and feeding equipment. While there are numerous maladies that can affect birds, the ones most commonly found in backyard birds are House Finch Eye Disease, Avian Pox, Trichomoniasis, and Salmonellosis. It is nearly impossible to diagnose these illnesses by sight alone (with the exception of maybe Avian Pox) as many have similar symptoms as stated above. These symptoms include difficulty flying, feeding, or drinking, lethargy, crusty or runny eyes, abnormal lumps or lesions on the skin, laboured breathing, a "puffed" or hunched appearance, and an apparent lack of fear when approached. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2021/04/sick-birds-at-feeders.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about these illnesses and what to do if you find a sick bird in your yard.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPqxRnYqJKulodm_YyG-neQKDekyG8KMURpPAxUGRYwncV2btPtRtMQm0tjeS0xsB4D4XAgober2uvO7QOkna5QiumE-jGV0gPXXdhhgRiLG7pYzY6M50q53nvAriQKO13e6VVaTLaBxQ5gBBhDKgrJ6IADO2tzhizlkvUo3WDMs-2lMuQZXsOUlKkYL4/s640/File_000.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIPqxRnYqJKulodm_YyG-neQKDekyG8KMURpPAxUGRYwncV2btPtRtMQm0tjeS0xsB4D4XAgober2uvO7QOkna5QiumE-jGV0gPXXdhhgRiLG7pYzY6M50q53nvAriQKO13e6VVaTLaBxQ5gBBhDKgrJ6IADO2tzhizlkvUo3WDMs-2lMuQZXsOUlKkYL4/w480-h640/File_000.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A variety of easy-to-clean <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders" target="_blank">WBU Bird Feeders</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div><b><br />How to properly clean bird feeders</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Seed Bird Feeders:<br /></b></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>When cleaning your feeders, it is always best to wear rubber gloves if possible. If not, ensure that you wash your hands thoroughly upon completion.<br /><br /></li><li>Use a brush to remove dirt, and any visible mold.<br /><br /></li><li>Using a 10% Bleach Solution soak feeders for a minimum of 10 minutes to help loosen grease and dirt build-up. Using your brush again, clean feeders thoroughly (a long-handled bottle brush works well on tube feeders). A toothbrush can be a handy tool for scrubbing the feeding ports and other small parts. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/feeder-accessories" target="_blank">Brushes</a> designed specifically for cleaning bird feeders are the best choice.<br /><br /></li><li>When all dirt, grease and mold have been removed, rinse all parts of the feeder thoroughly for at least 15 seconds in very warm, clean water to be sure all chemical residue is removed.<br /><br /></li><li>It is important to completely air-dry feeders before reassembling and filling with feed. Any remaining moisture could lead to mold and mildew that can cause illness and rotten, unhealthy seed.<br /><br /></li><li>Take time while cleaning the feeder to inspect it for sharp points or edges that can scratch or cut birds. Small wounds can open the door for bacteria and viruses to infect otherwise healthy birds.<br /><br /></li></ol><div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF47BaKcN-H4Y8W5EJbLi0OQJZFOxW_T1pBKOKC-8DrBfjGXcaNi22I7elta-EkFlyQXt-TxIIZNbAh0I9trsfm0s_CvKSnZm8RyeZ-MgaQnlBeP6Uz936RRRLfsD8PFKQUGvv4Yf95weU8WZfJ3ItVStOWpDR1y4cBOToDE0G7UT82q8979nTAJncZo16/s3072/29148145140_645dccf949_3k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="3072" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF47BaKcN-H4Y8W5EJbLi0OQJZFOxW_T1pBKOKC-8DrBfjGXcaNi22I7elta-EkFlyQXt-TxIIZNbAh0I9trsfm0s_CvKSnZm8RyeZ-MgaQnlBeP6Uz936RRRLfsD8PFKQUGvv4Yf95weU8WZfJ3ItVStOWpDR1y4cBOToDE0G7UT82q8979nTAJncZo16/w640-h426/29148145140_645dccf949_3k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby-throated Hummingbirds feeding from <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/hummingbird-feeders" target="_blank">WBU High Perch Hummingbird Feeder</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Nectar Feeders</b></div><div>Purchase a hummingbird feeder that is easy to take apart and clean. Clean following the same instructions as for seed feeders. Nectar Feeders should be cleaned every time the solution is changed, (during extreme heat - every 1-3 days, in cooler temperatures, weekly), especially if the solution appears cloudy. Although the nectar solution may appear fine, if it starts to ferment, it can have a deadly effect on the hummingbirds, causing their tongues to swell and in turn, starving them to death.</div><div><br /><div><b>Birdbaths</b></div><div>Remember to keep your birdbaths clean as well. Changing water every day or two is the best practice. When necessary, use a brush to clean out any dirt or algae from the birdbath and give it a rinse before refilling. Purchasing a water wiggler or dripper can keep the water in your birdbath moving, making it attractive to birds, as well as preventing mosquitoes from laying eggs.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Tip: The easiest way to clean bird feeders and birdbaths, is to clean them regularly, then the clean up will be minimal.</i></div></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div>Happy trails! </div><div>- Shayna</div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-54094759341247985012023-10-03T13:18:00.001-04:002023-10-04T08:57:43.220-04:00Why We Need Coyotes <p>As we approach the colder weather ahead, there is a particular animal in Southern Ontario that tends to get more air time during winter months: Coyotes. Why is that? Coyotes are as much present during other months of the year but blend in incredibly well with their surroundings. During the winter, when they are travelling between 'green' spaces, the white backdrop of snow makes them a lot more visible. It's therefore not because there are <i>more </i>coyotes present during this time of year, but that snow actually makes us notice them more than usual. They also breed between February and March and are more active during that time. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwbfC4rTI92C3uaEJYeOtQI2-4U9qwEXu1XSX7mWH22OvhApbUn8u2juSZBvCGACQjByUEHi-UJMFk9MM4lNCVivUIwfUT-95NyduNHqYSBbZ5cbGDeMHAFtsCR2RA2htt1umWgm5iG7ZwvEuu8p81el1k2yCdBhuujLFn09YMTKoIiDuuf6iJmOumY4/s640/5489953645_8770ffe749_o.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="640" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwbfC4rTI92C3uaEJYeOtQI2-4U9qwEXu1XSX7mWH22OvhApbUn8u2juSZBvCGACQjByUEHi-UJMFk9MM4lNCVivUIwfUT-95NyduNHqYSBbZ5cbGDeMHAFtsCR2RA2htt1umWgm5iG7ZwvEuu8p81el1k2yCdBhuujLFn09YMTKoIiDuuf6iJmOumY4/w640-h410/5489953645_8770ffe749_o.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coyote at sunset. Photo by Shayna Hartley. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>With an uptick in sightings often also comes something else: <i>fear. </i>News stories have historically framed coyotes negatively, and many people fear they present a huge danger to people and domestic pets alike. To learn more about coyotes, humans, and pets, please see our blog <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2023/01/what-you-need-to-know-about-coyotes-in.html">What You Need To Know about Coyotes in Ontario. </a> When we published that blog some lovely people in our community pointed out that we should also help educate people on how important coyotes are for our ecosystem, so here we are doing just that. </p><p><br /></p><p><u><b>The Importance of Coyotes in Ecosystems: </b></u></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Population Control:</b> coyotes help regulate and keep under control the populations of rodents and other small mammals. This type of predator/prey dynamic is necessary to avoid overpopulation and depletion of resources </li><li><b>Disease Control: </b>by aiding in controlling rodent and small mammal populations, they also help to control the spread of diseases they are known to carry, which can include Lyme disease. </li><li><b>Clean up Crew: </b>because coyotes are opportunistic and can act as scavengers, they also act as a sort of 'clean up crew', helping to rid of decaying animals that may be present in our environments </li><li><b>Seed Dispersal:</b> because coyotes do eat certain fruits and seeds, they also become seed dispersers when they excrete them into different areas</li></ul><div>Coyotes play such an important role that they are actually considered a keystone species, meaning they have a significant impact on the ecosystems in which they live. Often misunderstood and vilified, coyotes are not only a beautiful species - but a necessary one for our ecosystems to thrive. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please help us in spreading the word and changing the conversation surrounding coyotes. We need them! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Warmly,</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br />Heather </i></div><p></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-49629947977580195482023-09-27T13:35:00.001-04:002023-09-27T13:35:48.486-04:005 Fall Bird Feeding Must-Haves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the seasons change, wild birds' needs change, too. Nesting season is over and wildlife are preparing for the cold months ahead. Some by migrating south, and others by building fat reserves, caching food, and scoping out the best winter roosting zones. Here are five of our top must-have products to make your yard the go-to place for the birds this fall.<br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lr5yw4o_GuMMFPIPTifxab4BuX13iJ5iJBjJVpDTCXn1BX6nfverauIviix2ZqUj4t7WfpVp4yHiyT5r5UQfiwUzqVXxzg5LzTdr1GVD6vpYA3JwE0ICYlsCUdlMbTFXBsQANNEYfS9qxnjXmWNuapef-8nhM827UhiOiK5mKLrBpoyoSuZpbKZroWR2/s2048/49030555946_f0983f3a23_k.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1412" data-original-width="2048" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lr5yw4o_GuMMFPIPTifxab4BuX13iJ5iJBjJVpDTCXn1BX6nfverauIviix2ZqUj4t7WfpVp4yHiyT5r5UQfiwUzqVXxzg5LzTdr1GVD6vpYA3JwE0ICYlsCUdlMbTFXBsQANNEYfS9qxnjXmWNuapef-8nhM827UhiOiK5mKLrBpoyoSuZpbKZroWR2/w640-h442/49030555946_f0983f3a23_k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-breasted Nuthatch with peanut (out of the shell)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>1. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed" target="_blank">Peanuts</a></b><br />Many birds including nuthatches, chickadees, and blue jays, are spending their fall days caching (storing) food for winter. Peanuts, both in and out of the shell, and the perfect caching food. Birds are constantly seeking high-calorie foods to fuel their high metabolism and keep them energized to survive and thrive in the wild. This is especially true the fall and winter seasons. Depending on the species, a birds' caloric intake need can be as high as 10 000 calories in a single day - that's equivalent to a human consuming 155 000 calories! One of the best foods to offer birds to help them meet their caloric demands is peanuts. High calorie, high protein, and highly desired. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/02/all-about-peanuts-who-eats-them-how-to.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about peanuts & which birds you can attract with them.<br /><br /></p><p><b>2. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bark-butter" target="_blank">Bark Butter</a></b><br />Bark Butter is a highly nutritious, palatable, and spreadable suet created with the intention of attracting the shy and feeder-weary Brown Creeper. It is made of pure rendered beef suet, peanut butter, corn, and added calcium for an extra boost. This high-calorie food perfect for fueling up migrating species, and those who are putting on some winter weight to stick out the cold weather. Since it's easily spreadable, Bark Butter essentially turns your surroundings in to bird feeders. Grab your tub of Bark Butter & a fork, smear a generous amount on to a tree and crosshatch with fork prongs, and watch as the birds investigate and chow down. Keep a close eye on the Bark Butter patches in your yard, you may see some unique visitors such as Brown Creepers, warbler species, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, and more.<br /><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrmyaqzFtBTGlsCX3PHxC6XTWTf-2YKMXzBlC6aChlM3DT5744Z9EDXAsbmH3zqgMHsNfkdJPvGEPsxilvpzmiutGg_BCHUcdRdKH6bSrcVnzBShjdJBR1ZcMzXSPtEq9ofDwDH0PDn9hgwYVCFx_hhvWTpXTr5pDRTErHbMnUv_l1wwQ9h74ckYz4bW-/s2048/Male%20Cardinal%20at%20Bird%20Bath.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrmyaqzFtBTGlsCX3PHxC6XTWTf-2YKMXzBlC6aChlM3DT5744Z9EDXAsbmH3zqgMHsNfkdJPvGEPsxilvpzmiutGg_BCHUcdRdKH6bSrcVnzBShjdJBR1ZcMzXSPtEq9ofDwDH0PDn9hgwYVCFx_hhvWTpXTr5pDRTErHbMnUv_l1wwQ9h74ckYz4bW-/w640-h426/Male%20Cardinal%20at%20Bird%20Bath.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal drinking from WBU Heated Bird Bath</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>3. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-baths-&-houses/bird-baths-&-water" target="_blank">Bird Bath</a></b><br />Providing a consistent source of drinking and bathing water is one of the most important elements you can incorporate in to your regular backyard birding regime. Water is a requirement for all birds year-round, and is a great way to invite a wide variety of species into your yard. As the freezing temps creep in, open water will be in short supply and snow will become the primary source of hydration for most of our backyard birds. It takes a lot of energy to convert snow to water, and during the cold winter months birds need to conserve as much energy as possible. You can help the birds in your yard stay hydrated this fall and winter by installing a heated bird bath. Heated bird baths keep the water temperature just above freezing which gives birds to opportunity to drink as needed throughout the colder months, and can help attract species not particularly known to visit feeders such as American Robins, Northern Flickers, and even some birds of prey.<br /><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D4wMQg-4T-epeTxgm7k6rJXc6L4uEZ-_TOuBzU2BilpH5CzHW4qVoewWY6eeUnstXG5OhyAyAt46gpzggNPwuRznwFndhvoQbdNYiqz7zvPyXfVhgUJgzKDDu9iMkCR4X1j0PIppTblP0X92fUCVLoZa8j1u6keamBFZbVbfhvIQqXlW6y53SALpzpyl/s864/00007232.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="864" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D4wMQg-4T-epeTxgm7k6rJXc6L4uEZ-_TOuBzU2BilpH5CzHW4qVoewWY6eeUnstXG5OhyAyAt46gpzggNPwuRznwFndhvoQbdNYiqz7zvPyXfVhgUJgzKDDu9iMkCR4X1j0PIppTblP0X92fUCVLoZa8j1u6keamBFZbVbfhvIQqXlW6y53SALpzpyl/w640-h426/00007232.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downy Woodpecker feeding on Seed Character from Seed Cylinder Feeder</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>4. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/specialty-feeders/seed-cylinder-feeder-(green)" target="_blank">Seed Cylinder Feeder</a> (& <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/seed-cylinders" target="_blank">Seed Cylinders</a>)</b><br />Fall kicks off the holiday season with Thanksgiving & Halloween, not to mention all of the fun fall activities like apple picking, corn mazes, and so much more. Before we know it we're jumping into winter holiday plans - life is busy this time of year! Don't let the birds down by forgetting to fill the feeders while you are out and about this fall, try a Seed Cylinder Feeder and our long-lasting Seed Cylinders. Seed Cylinders are made of a variety of different seeds packed tightly into a tidy & convenient cylinder, designed to last. They come in a wide variety of blends allowing you to choose which is right for your backyard birds, including Safflower, No-Mess, Nesting SuperBlend, Woodpecker Blend, Hot Pepper varieties, and more. <br /><br /></p><p><b>5. <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/gifts/home" target="_blank">Window Strike Prevention</a></b><br />Fall migration is an exciting time for Ontario birders with dozens of species leaving for warmer climates, and many species returning to spend the winter in our yards. While it is exciting for us, it is an extremely stressful time for the birds. One of the largest threats birds face today is human made.. buildings & windows. Window strikes kill an estimated <b>100 MILLION</b> to <b>1 BILLION</b> birds each year across North America. During migration, many species travel at night, using the constellations to help with navigation. Often times during this nocturnal journey, birds are attracted to our man-made lights, confusing them with stars, and collide with buildings. In daylight hours, our windows reflect the sky or trees, deceiving birds who do not see the glass. Window strike injuries are often fatal, but are largely preventable. There are many successful methods you can practice to prevent window strikes at your home, including: proper feeder placement, keeping blinds down and partially closed, turning lights off at night, and installing window decals such as Feather Friendly Window Markers or Window Alert Decals. Learn more about preventing window strikes <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/06/how-to-protect-birds-from-window.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><p><br /></p><p><b>Happy trails!<br />- Shayna</b></p>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-83965160197083378942023-09-20T13:41:00.001-04:002023-09-20T13:41:28.253-04:00How Bird Watching Can Boost Your Mental Health <p>If you're already someone who watches birds, whether it be your backyard, in conservation areas or both, you're probably aware that it is very uplifting. For many, it was a place to turn to during the pandemic, or many other stressful points that we're bound to experience in life. It is very stress relieving. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqOZQad3ph3BTYwd7tj8WbWeto3B9BNoXIT-LMbWZBVVA8jAJQr8FrOBr7T6pmLhahmC7RS5EO7YxFCOMvYXEtJ7LWN2ILMrVgeNqmMHAWASr3fnaSlcKF1UqP5FwIx_XBCAMcS1KO3InFbMFIfV39zyXGaUZxvOAEpGKew7xf3sgSw9sUZIXJFDzda4/s1500/52884515742_a9f9fe8297_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqOZQad3ph3BTYwd7tj8WbWeto3B9BNoXIT-LMbWZBVVA8jAJQr8FrOBr7T6pmLhahmC7RS5EO7YxFCOMvYXEtJ7LWN2ILMrVgeNqmMHAWASr3fnaSlcKF1UqP5FwIx_XBCAMcS1KO3InFbMFIfV39zyXGaUZxvOAEpGKew7xf3sgSw9sUZIXJFDzda4/w640-h426/52884515742_a9f9fe8297_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-throated Sparrow. Photo by Heather Kerrison. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p></p><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></div><p></p><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Science has confirmed that having birds around your home can act as a sort of preventative health care, creating happier places to live. Check out <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/02/170225102113.htm" style="border: 0px; color: #4c6878; cursor: pointer; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 700; height: auto; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">this study</a>.</span></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; border: 0px; color: black; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Observing birds can improve our mental state by:<br /><br /><ul style="font-style: normal;"><li><b>Encouraging Mindfulness:</b> when you are birding, you are typically acutely aware of movement, sound, and sights around you. This allows you to be fully present in that moment, pulling your attention away from any nagging thoughts or things that may be weighing on you. This mental clarity can really afford you a sense of calm. </li></ul><div><br /></div><ul style="font-style: normal;"><li><b>Social Interaction: </b>Bird watching is such a point of social connection. If you are part of our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2479174042315330/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&multi_permalinks=3671353346430721">Facebook Group</a> you know that it's one of the most positive places to be on the internet! It's simply people sharing about birds they've seen and the joy and excitement that comes along with it. You can even bird in groups or join guided tours/walks. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5UcACFxoZr7v9jyq4wnssvOYbryi4AVmaRPe32HVqIgRNGm2jJ0vptCsAgwuhwan9OQjYLrkNGc28lRYCS4s5fDIX2XQKXreRUa-R7gqZ67dAOVpEtstCh6gVtXqy8GCZlaggV8zBTIu7a6IS9RIm-YiW1SUf3nNh7QnGaMDwkclg0ZMlWtsNUgHuME/s684/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-30%20at%2012.34.45%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="684" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5UcACFxoZr7v9jyq4wnssvOYbryi4AVmaRPe32HVqIgRNGm2jJ0vptCsAgwuhwan9OQjYLrkNGc28lRYCS4s5fDIX2XQKXreRUa-R7gqZ67dAOVpEtstCh6gVtXqy8GCZlaggV8zBTIu7a6IS9RIm-YiW1SUf3nNh7QnGaMDwkclg0ZMlWtsNUgHuME/w640-h484/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-30%20at%2012.34.45%20PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People connect with each other in the group, share birds they've seen, help each other with ID and more. </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><ul style="font-style: normal;"><li><b>Continuous Learning: </b>there's a certain sense of wonder and accomplishment that comes along with learning to identify new birds by sight and sound. It's very stimulating for our minds and ultimately super rewarding - lots of warm and fuzzies! </li></ul><ul style="font-style: normal;"><li><b>Ignites Creativity: </b>Many people like to photograph birds they see, which very often leads to honing that skill, becoming more creative in it. Some even use birds they see as sources of inspiration for painting, drawing, and many other creative endeavours. </li></ul><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhif9Su8GWSwzdQfXQSEhouXM0GLT7okieT-9Guxujddi4A9s6GMKLwxunyRiszrCE0Y0W4dnW9lcULUilVJqYSHUw03KrTE-pPui52v1ObMAKDOlYmNGjOzYBXJg99y2McOp5Pl9kNKACLW8Hw5rrhKsCaiBC_0H2ep-2pjB_RMLnIuN5qXX_fpWRqgBo/s4558/52089715610_c443f936dd_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3039" data-original-width="4558" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhif9Su8GWSwzdQfXQSEhouXM0GLT7okieT-9Guxujddi4A9s6GMKLwxunyRiszrCE0Y0W4dnW9lcULUilVJqYSHUw03KrTE-pPui52v1ObMAKDOlYmNGjOzYBXJg99y2McOp5Pl9kNKACLW8Hw5rrhKsCaiBC_0H2ep-2pjB_RMLnIuN5qXX_fpWRqgBo/w640-h426/52089715610_c443f936dd_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It can be so fun to frame shots differently or view things from different angles. Tree Swallow, photo by Heather Kerrison. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal;">If someone ever tells you that you 'bird too much' - tell them it's good for your health! Doctors orders. </div><div style="font-style: normal;"><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal;">To birding! </div><div style="font-style: normal;"><br /></div><div><i>Warmly, </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br />Heather</i></div></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-49192407338819441442023-09-13T12:13:00.004-04:002023-09-13T12:20:44.992-04:00Fun Facts about Juncos (and How to Attract Them!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Summer is quickly fading away, which means so long to our warm weather birds - and hello to everyone's favourite little "snowbird", Dark-eyed Juncos! Here are some fun facts to get you geared up and ready for the their upcoming arrival.<br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQeMFBKkGon0jQfNIZ8BIx3yp8ClmJFqdSM9b4ebCQjjjOUGny6wp12-xAJ02U9GS_JLK19kQv8-1YozKl9YPkZOCDejBsY9GkYfY8gwgTBBe5Q17Shgel_BZbka2Y9pF5ezZrTdUcFzb5v8VOPq3sK3u2lkh2zxmmcODsOl3E_fThvVrH7lUKLFHFsOy/s3830/50940562143_67c9bcd4f0_4k%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2553" data-original-width="3830" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQeMFBKkGon0jQfNIZ8BIx3yp8ClmJFqdSM9b4ebCQjjjOUGny6wp12-xAJ02U9GS_JLK19kQv8-1YozKl9YPkZOCDejBsY9GkYfY8gwgTBBe5Q17Shgel_BZbka2Y9pF5ezZrTdUcFzb5v8VOPq3sK3u2lkh2zxmmcODsOl3E_fThvVrH7lUKLFHFsOy/w640-h426/50940562143_67c9bcd4f0_4k%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark-eyed Junco feeding on <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/bird-seed/choice-plus-blend-bird-seed" target="_blank">Choice Plus Blend</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><b>Familiar faces</b></div><div>The Dark-eyed Junco is one of the most common birds in North America, ranging from Alaska to Mexico, and from California to New York. With a recent estimate placing their population at approximately 630 million individuals, it's no wonder they are one of the most recognized (and loved) backyard bird species.<br /><br /><b>Affectionately nicknamed<br /></b>Dark-eyed Juncos are migratory sparrows who have been affectionately nicknamed “Snowbirds”, due to the fact that many birdwatchers believe their return from their northern breeding grounds foretells the return of cold and snowy weather. Juncos often flock together in groups of 6 or more birds, and return to the same area each year. This means that if you've had juncos at your feeders last year, there's a good chance that you'll see some of the same birds this year. <br /><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojRbYy0DNd_KrmRE9qlY1Iv9vRXEU90qlPiorIQypqdMf7Qwm_3rkKStnLjDcjrO4jDwqirO-GulJOPe8306wrfU4KhCAqoKqZc-QraXDpS6WYLqkoPzGvE8XTSxV45PaXSHN6wmwTaBCmvzBGs7g_ugvhdmBVFUnVTD0NVhYHtEHcEab_R6gPIRBdJOE/s5120/51004195393_7c0c38756b_5k.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3413" data-original-width="5120" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojRbYy0DNd_KrmRE9qlY1Iv9vRXEU90qlPiorIQypqdMf7Qwm_3rkKStnLjDcjrO4jDwqirO-GulJOPe8306wrfU4KhCAqoKqZc-QraXDpS6WYLqkoPzGvE8XTSxV45PaXSHN6wmwTaBCmvzBGs7g_ugvhdmBVFUnVTD0NVhYHtEHcEab_R6gPIRBdJOE/w640-h426/51004195393_7c0c38756b_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassiar Junco</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br />Coats of many colours</b></div>They may be common, but their plumage is anything but! One of the most interesting things you may notice while watching juncos in your yard is the wide array of plumage colour between individuals. Through multi-year studies, researchers have found that there are actually 15 distinct variations of Dark-eyed Juncos, with the most prevalent in our area being "slate-coloured". Among slate-coloured juncos you will still see some variation in plumage, particularly between males and females. Males are overall grey to nearly black with a white belly, while females and juveniles range from light brown, to mottled brown and grey, to light grey, also with a white belly.<b> </b>Pictured is a Cassiar Junco<b>: <i>"</i></b><i>The Dark-eyed Junco (Cassiar) is found in the Rocky Mountains. It is said to be a hybrid of the Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) and the Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon). It is not considered a sub-species or race of the Dark-eyed Junco." from <a href="http://Birds-of-North-America.net">Birds-of-North-America.net</a></i><br /><div><br /><div><b>Night fliers</b><br />During migration periods, Dark-eyed Juncos (and many other species) travel by night. They don't have night vision goggles to help them, but instead use the constellations to aid in navigation. Often times during this nocturnal journey birds are attracted to our man-made lights, confusing them with stars, and collide with buildings. Juncos fly at low altitudes and are especially susceptible to collisions during these times. Window strike injuries are often fatal, but are largely preventable, and there are many successful methods you can practice to prevent window strikes at your home. These include proper feeder placement, keeping blinds down and partially closed, turning lights off at night, and installing window decals such as Feather Friendly Window Markers or WindowAlert Decals. Click <a href="https://barrie.wbu.com/problem-solving-window-strikes?fbclid=IwAR1q9pyjd8wPMARMcCC8jsu9W65QAVeRnmMGQ-Ily9CxPQT5gF6nSVgeHIw" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about preventing window collisions.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LEAz3ZC45YmF5o7uigMFNb0Lz6MBM4KZWXxXXaS1lQRKxSBUNzH2wUpottsBsPUaMM7dwpvBUQ_sqAzA2Z5DPcxiGZOqo5d-lWcIH_I3mizgQPi_hqg7Gc0pdsYJ-idYrsEfsiyPL9cbi1n0savwFVf4jVdUTJ33b4KCYg3kJAaIfcBXLgcQ1dKQgICa/s2048/49066898048_22c4303575_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LEAz3ZC45YmF5o7uigMFNb0Lz6MBM4KZWXxXXaS1lQRKxSBUNzH2wUpottsBsPUaMM7dwpvBUQ_sqAzA2Z5DPcxiGZOqo5d-lWcIH_I3mizgQPi_hqg7Gc0pdsYJ-idYrsEfsiyPL9cbi1n0savwFVf4jVdUTJ33b4KCYg3kJAaIfcBXLgcQ1dKQgICa/w640-h426/49066898048_22c4303575_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark-eyed Juncos feeding on <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/seed-cylinders/bug-nut-berry-cylinder" target="_blank">Bug, Nut & Berry Cylinder</a> from a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/specialty-feeders/seed-cylinder-feeder-(green)" target="_blank">Cylinder Feeder</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Attracting Juncos to Your Yard</b><br /><div>Dark-eyed Juncos are bouncy, and often plentiful feeder visitors, who become fast regulars in backyards when their needs are being met. Those needs include safety & shelter, food, and a consistent source of fresh water. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Safety & Shelter<br /></b>Having a bird-friendly lawn means keeping it as safe and secure as possible for the. This means keeping cats indoors, and providing lots of shelter in the form of native plants of all heights (low to high grasses, shrubs, mature trees) whenever possible. Shelter can also be provided by creating brush piles with twigs, branches, rocks, and more. Having multiple sheltered areas gives the birds options for perching and keeping watch for any predators lurking nearby. It also gives them areas to keep out of inclement weather such as snow storms or freezing rain. </li></ul></div></div></div></div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Foods & Feeders<br /></b>Lucky for us, juncos are not super finicky eaters, and enjoy a wide variety of foods including white millet, cracked corn, mealworms, WBU No-Mess LM, WBU Deluxe Blend, Bark Butter and Bark Butter Bits, and a variety of WBU Seed Cylinders. Juncos are typically ground feeders, but will happily perch at feeders for their favourite foods. Feeders recommended for juncos include ground trays, fly-thru feeders, hopper style feeders, and hanging tray feeders. Bark Butter is a favourite of theirs, and can be spread low on tree trunks or rocks for them to nibble on. You can also attract juncos and other seed-eating species to your yard by growing native plants such as chickweed, ragweed, and coneflowers. While the urge to rake your lawn may be strong this time of year, the leaf litter in your yard often contains fallen seeds that are a good source of food for birds and other wildlife.</li></ul></div></div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Water<br /></b>Providing a source of fresh, open water is always a great way to help attract a cornucopia of bird species to your yard, but can be tricky in winter months - because, you know, ice. You can do so by installing a heated birdbath or bath heater to an existing bath. Adding a heated birdbath in your yard is the best way to ensure the birds return again and again. Converting snow to liquid to keep hydrated takes a lot of energy, so most bird species naturally prefer to drink water for hydration rather than use energy that could be utilized for maintaining body heat instead. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div><b>Happy trails!</b></div><div><b>- Shayna</b></div></div></div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-28269589752845441592023-09-06T09:33:00.000-04:002023-09-06T09:33:58.949-04:00Why You Need a Window Bird Feeder <p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Whether you already have a feeder set up or not - a window feeder is such a fabulous addition to any home and invites a lot of extra joy into everyday life. Window feeders provide a unique opportunity for people to observe birds up close without disturbing them. The birds come right to the window, allowing for detailed views of their behaviour, feeding habits, and interactions. It's the perfect pairing to a <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/gifts/home/balance-medium-blend-ground-coffee">(bird friendly) morning coffee</a>, doing the dishes - or simply strolling past! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HaqMXPK6_eQwTY80Z3PIMM_ZhL4KyZcwUSewv9FxCYy4LLpawVfs2trn70Se5cdkpQxfvW-m6Yq6DKlg_XfOfAbQ4lwRvVl22w3tboULgezZgNgvNRny0CUxaKExy6nvnMfABCiNRWy22OVpYbLNlziLJoBNYx6z82cKY4a6Ta-ABIF25BEqT5UrXQo/s5472/51303711073_624cbf0b21_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HaqMXPK6_eQwTY80Z3PIMM_ZhL4KyZcwUSewv9FxCYy4LLpawVfs2trn70Se5cdkpQxfvW-m6Yq6DKlg_XfOfAbQ4lwRvVl22w3tboULgezZgNgvNRny0CUxaKExy6nvnMfABCiNRWy22OVpYbLNlziLJoBNYx6z82cKY4a6Ta-ABIF25BEqT5UrXQo/w640-h426/51303711073_624cbf0b21_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal at Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>They are easy to set up and maintain: </b>All you need is an accessible window, so even if you have limited outdoor space for a full set up, they're still a great option.</li><li><b>You can offer a wide range of food: </b> <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/bark-butter-feeders/featherweight-quickbites-window-feeder">we have Bark Butter window feeders,</a> and <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/window-feeder">many other options</a> including <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-feeders/window-feeder/decorative-window-hummingbird-feeder">window Hummingbird feeders.</a> Think about offering seed, Bark Butter, mealworms, <a href="https://order.wbu.com/barrie/bird-food/nectar-jelly/birdberry-jelly">BirdBerry Jelly</a> and more. </li></ul><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMDd2lDqu7ZCA0VJvSVb-lD3FtPznyy7sOd-lvLEwS6G_A4eKPvmWi-K0Rfbr8n6FlOx95WtElHumueOMaFSzrSzfn0iqgon-qyET3LDjSn0ECkC4mnBhSgCPBuuR20Ogs850j1rU64LMf_ia4lchxZYqc2EvVn8bckLETvyRJ0w0jAeDUikPgoir_RE/s5449/51302770212_db456b0418_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3613" data-original-width="5449" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMDd2lDqu7ZCA0VJvSVb-lD3FtPznyy7sOd-lvLEwS6G_A4eKPvmWi-K0Rfbr8n6FlOx95WtElHumueOMaFSzrSzfn0iqgon-qyET3LDjSn0ECkC4mnBhSgCPBuuR20Ogs850j1rU64LMf_ia4lchxZYqc2EvVn8bckLETvyRJ0w0jAeDUikPgoir_RE/w640-h424/51302770212_db456b0418_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Cardinal eating at a Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Great for kids: </b>This is such a key educational opportunity, learning to identify different bird species, which foods they may prefer, individual behaviours and more </li><li><b>Provides peace: </b>This close connection to wildlife infused into everyday life offers moment of quiet observation, and even joy. There is nothing like looking over and realizing there is a Cardinal enjoying some mealworms right at your window. </li></ul><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bq8Hm1grV_6C3jMcytiaKoiI6OUQ-A_jZ_aas67hhhvTRFzWVJFD79Qoorr_nf9QHDPb-D6tUk8HHebrjkWe2MB2alCqGVC8_OAXyYDY65TH1D6Rf-RtR4R8zSBk04ruU-8GT_9igkTdbp4_hJ0XhBcHAD_lsFGePAP_mCrZC6ImGpIiPCB7yBn5mtE/s5472/51304531635_cb2f693088_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bq8Hm1grV_6C3jMcytiaKoiI6OUQ-A_jZ_aas67hhhvTRFzWVJFD79Qoorr_nf9QHDPb-D6tUk8HHebrjkWe2MB2alCqGVC8_OAXyYDY65TH1D6Rf-RtR4R8zSBk04ruU-8GT_9igkTdbp4_hJ0XhBcHAD_lsFGePAP_mCrZC6ImGpIiPCB7yBn5mtE/w640-h426/51304531635_cb2f693088_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-breasted Nuthatch at Window Feeder. Photo by Leanne LeBlanc. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Window feeders offer a convenient and intimate way to appreciate birds close up from inside your home!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> They invite in so much joy. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">Don't forget to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wbubarrie/">tag us</a> in your photos or share in our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2479174042315330/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&multi_permalinks=3670112389888150">Facebook Group</a> to connect with other bird lovers! </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><b>Happy (window) watching! </b></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><i>Warmly, </i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><i>Heather</i></span></span></p><p></p><div><br /></div><p></p><div></div>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-3172780082639880952023-08-30T21:14:00.002-04:002023-08-30T21:14:57.620-04:00Tips for Introducing New Feeders to Your Yard<p>One of the most exciting things for any backyard birder is purchasing a new feeder for the birds in your backyard to enjoy. For me, the anticipation of waiting for that first bird to test out the new attraction makes me feel like a kid at Christmas! Sometimes new feeders are used by birds right away, but other times you may not see a bird at it for days or even weeks. It can feel like the chosen feeder that you were so excited about was actually a waste of money. If you have a new feeder that isn't being used by your backyard birds, try out these helpful tips to make them feel more comfortable with the new addition to the buffet. <br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZz5mGx8J1yzl8M4nD1lfkfUzsGwM6zFHC39SWZttp6NbZ9IfoHjNvQLFoUkm62Y857YYD6pkzMS7fhogdDpurXvybJuLhl6CRs8NQxJFnY3dYhUJ2jYnrnpFe9Gr6iy6usGpUxQ4a7jo7WPzkSFR2rKNdPcq_UJC7bHqAhEOrMU5ptXBDg2Jd81dnrNw/s4899/50080874223_0c47aae036_5k%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3266" data-original-width="4899" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZz5mGx8J1yzl8M4nD1lfkfUzsGwM6zFHC39SWZttp6NbZ9IfoHjNvQLFoUkm62Y857YYD6pkzMS7fhogdDpurXvybJuLhl6CRs8NQxJFnY3dYhUJ2jYnrnpFe9Gr6iy6usGpUxQ4a7jo7WPzkSFR2rKNdPcq_UJC7bHqAhEOrMU5ptXBDg2Jd81dnrNw/w640-h426/50080874223_0c47aae036_5k%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hairy Woodpecker feeding from Squirrel Buster Suet</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><div><b>Placement is key</b></div><div>When introducing a new feeder to a yard with feeders already present, hang the new feeder close to the most popular feeder(s). The birds still may not use it immediately, but it will help them get used to seeing and being around the new feeder. Eventually, they should feel comfortable enough with the new object in their space that they will try it out. Also keep in mind that before heading to their feeding areas, birds like to perch nearby to scan the area for any possible threats that may be lurking. They also need these safe zones to retreat to when inclement weather hits, or when predators enter the area so they can make a quick getaway and hide out until the coast is clear. Be sure to take this into consideration when choosing the right spot for your feeders or feeding stations. A perching area can be in the form of trees or shrubs, fences, or brush piles, anything they can safely sit on when they need to. You should also consider keeping your feeders out of areas where foot traffic may be high, or where pets roam, to try to minimize disturbance in the feeding area. Click <a href="https://naturenotesblog.blogspot.com/2022/05/achieving-best-feeder-placement-for.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about achieving the best feeder placement in your yard. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Offer a familiar food</b></div><div>Offering a familiar or favourite food in a new feeder can entice the birds to use it more quickly. Whether it be a No-Mess Blend, SuperSuet, or simply black oil sunflower seed, use whichever food you find the birds in your yard are most attracted to.<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>If you are offering seed in the new feeder, don't fill it right up. Instead, offer just a few cups at a time until the birds are using it consistently. This will help cut down on waste and save money. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Hot tip:</i></b> Keep the food you're offering fresh and the feeder clean even if you haven't noticed any activity at it. Stale food and dirty feeders are a major turn off for the birds and will drive them to visit elsewhere for their meals.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eJ6zalJIwl2RrmdptLuwu07cIBUeuKf9mDYP6lh6y1yGIwAohNC7j6Fow0Y6n-_qasrnLn_3Vhar2c9GXvrnQ3LnZn8olQ9O52y2dEg_llhuB4XaMXpF87GoamezEAV179-iSHN3w-YJcvLHdt8u6jO-LLjn9VE-3iaUxWTnxTSSCytVI9NRTjV8Hm--/s2048/51263820934_0bc2b709fe_5k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1332" data-original-width="2048" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eJ6zalJIwl2RrmdptLuwu07cIBUeuKf9mDYP6lh6y1yGIwAohNC7j6Fow0Y6n-_qasrnLn_3Vhar2c9GXvrnQ3LnZn8olQ9O52y2dEg_llhuB4XaMXpF87GoamezEAV179-iSHN3w-YJcvLHdt8u6jO-LLjn9VE-3iaUxWTnxTSSCytVI9NRTjV8Hm--/w640-h416/51263820934_0bc2b709fe_5k.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baltimore Orioles feeding from Spiral Treat Tray with Feeder Cage</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b>Remove other feeders</b></div><div>Sometimes the best way to encourage birds to use a new feeder is to remove any existing ones. There may be a period of time where you lose your bird activity entirely, but typically within a few days they will start visiting the new feeder. This is particularly effective during fall and winter when they are in need of a consistent food source for caching and to keep up their fat stores. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Be patient</b></div><div>The most important thing we need to remember when it comes to wild bird feeding is just that... <i>they are wild!</i> Sometimes birds will come and go with no rhyme nor reason, despite our best efforts to attract them. Not knowing what to expect from one day to the next is what makes our hobby so exciting! Keep our tips in mind, patience in hand, and you will start to see birds at your new feeders in no time.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Happy trails!</div><div>- Shayna</div><div><i><br /></i></div>Shayna Hartleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11544511405384852741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1505830161814303436.post-1476696863310481872023-08-23T00:00:00.000-04:002023-08-23T09:19:45.171-04:00Rare and Unusual Bird Sightings: How to Be in the Know <p><span style="font-family: inherit;">While spotting common birds, for us anyways, is always a delight - there's a special thrill as birders in encountering rare and unusual bird species, or checking another 'lifer' off of your list. Rare birds do pop up in Southern Ontario. Often times 'rare' birds are rare to the <i>region </i>and have somehow gotten far off of their typical migration routes. Because the birds are so new to bird enthusiasts in the region, and they would usually otherwise have to travel long distances to find one, it only adds to the excitement. </span></p><p><br /></p><p>In the spring of last year a Marsh Sandpiper was spotted for the first time ever in Ontario, in Theford. As stated in this<a href="https://london.ctvnews.ca/once-in-a-lifetime-rare-bird-seen-for-first-time-in-canada-in-thedford-ont-1.5885282"> CTV News Article</a> about the buzz surrounding this sighting, </p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #404040;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #404040;"><i>'This Asiatic bird barely shows up on the west coast of North America and in Alaska occasionally, but it's even a rare bird on the Atlantic coast on the British side. It’s native to Central Asia.'</i></span></p><p><br /></p><p>In the fall of last year there was a Tropical Kingbird spotted in Windsor, which again drew crowds and even media attention. This bird typically resides in the Gulf of Mexico. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here are some sightings that we have been able to catch in the past few years: </p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MZr84c1mCIJg4ftsPXPG3sRojIDqcPvmgBuzKVan1CknQM8aloQBrDQJNBiOKZRLO_Vu0F7YI3moIPVwSSpUab5BxNGgrz8gH10s17z-fusrfOLqxgz641Jlo3YfIdU-lHTMLD1l8rzu1_aPjZHmgqPrGfl8ouxxva3k6ejAf5dPxM_CY6RP1OgWMDQ/s2284/5477277235_eb50dce90c_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1664" data-original-width="2284" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MZr84c1mCIJg4ftsPXPG3sRojIDqcPvmgBuzKVan1CknQM8aloQBrDQJNBiOKZRLO_Vu0F7YI3moIPVwSSpUab5BxNGgrz8gH10s17z-fusrfOLqxgz641Jlo3YfIdU-lHTMLD1l8rzu1_aPjZHmgqPrGfl8ouxxva3k6ejAf5dPxM_CY6RP1OgWMDQ/w640-h466/5477277235_eb50dce90c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Hawk Owl. Photo by Shayna Hartley. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;">1. Northern Hawk Owl:</b> this one created BIG buzz in the winter of 2020.<b><u> </u></b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They generally occupy fairly Northern ranges, but on years where populations of prey species such as small mammals are down, they tend to irrupt further south and occupy territories that are unusual for them. This garners a LOT of excitement. </span></span></p><p><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p><u style="font-weight: bold;">2. Rufous Hummingbird: </u>they typically occupy a very western range, from Alaska to Mexico, travelling typically up the Pacific Coast. This one was spotted in a backyard right here in Newmarket!! In late fall of 2021. It was clearly off path and fueled up before making its way but was an exciting find. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqOwS_iMVMaL5EfgnnEt-vg0JfakG55MhvOtGt93Jnuc_6-w80yxPPLJS1akxDnNTBm8L_7PrhowzC1B6iVbXWHw4wy1QaCDTexu8Tu4wi44-4KSr1FSqx97HITDj8vveD97AOq0MGR5yfD38hUyky4pz9ukwid8D5uPsfwgf-igrO8lDG5JdU503HsA/s5565/51693455721_9097a77684_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5565" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqOwS_iMVMaL5EfgnnEt-vg0JfakG55MhvOtGt93Jnuc_6-w80yxPPLJS1akxDnNTBm8L_7PrhowzC1B6iVbXWHw4wy1QaCDTexu8Tu4wi44-4KSr1FSqx97HITDj8vveD97AOq0MGR5yfD38hUyky4pz9ukwid8D5uPsfwgf-igrO8lDG5JdU503HsA/w640-h426/51693455721_9097a77684_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rufous Hummingbird. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><u style="font-weight: bold;">3. Great Black-backed Gull:</u> This species is typically spotted further east in areas like Nova Scotia, Massachusetts, and Newfoundland and migrates throughout the Atlantic region. Occasionally, they stray as far as the Great Lakes. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvn0CwDSF6zxNMqy-oUEbrDnHYjjwUSb_DZVfsKvavV0hoLo4vJ5Fpz6oC0UV6DdpjNXcizzaY-Ew0otOmveF276D_Ttdf9HRyI-BTfbdRNSPE6a7NYKGqxmAmm7DgLCiBW-J08BWDDJIhczyBWBYjS6cgnIFO-Xzd13NbxqwFOTKLiuKfZcu-OrLg58/s4898/50777784767_53b3794e82_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvn0CwDSF6zxNMqy-oUEbrDnHYjjwUSb_DZVfsKvavV0hoLo4vJ5Fpz6oC0UV6DdpjNXcizzaY-Ew0otOmveF276D_Ttdf9HRyI-BTfbdRNSPE6a7NYKGqxmAmm7DgLCiBW-J08BWDDJIhczyBWBYjS6cgnIFO-Xzd13NbxqwFOTKLiuKfZcu-OrLg58/w640-h426/50777784767_53b3794e82_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Black-backed Gull. Photo by Kristen Martyn. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b><u>How to stay up to date on rare birds being spotted in the region:</u></b></p><p><br /></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Join the<a href="https://groups.google.com/g/onrba?pli=1"> Ontario Rare Bird Alert on Google </a></li><li>Subscribe to the <a href="https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35610">eBird Rare Bird Alert </a></li><li>Join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1013499696261428/">Ontario Rare Bird Alert Facebook Group </a></li><li>Join our Facebook Group - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/OntarioBirds/">Ontario Birds by WBU Barrie and WBU Newmarket </a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>We LOVE seeing people get excited about birds. A final note: </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i>In general, it is best to exercise precaution whenever observing and photographing any bird or wildlife species. If you have to risk disturbing the animal to get the photo, it is not worth it. Just keeping in mind that it is important to maintain a respectful distance, as well as a reasonable length of time observing the bird.</i> </span><br style="font-family: "News Cycle", sans-serif; font-size: 15.75px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: justify;" /></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">As always - happy birding!! </span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><br />Warmly, </i></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 15.75px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;"><i>Heather</i></span></div><p></p>Heatherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15230100827294710038noreply@blogger.com0