Spring is Closer Than You Think: Nature Happenings

Whether it feels like it or not, spring is near. February into March is a big time for wildlife, as they start preparing for a shift in season. As we get into March, we see even more shifts happen that welcome spring! 

A lot has been happening over the course of the last month that signals a seasonal awakening. Let's run through all that animals are up to in the coming weeks and what you can be on the look out for. 

1. Birds are Calling 

By February several birds start to sing again- truly music to our ears. Listen for the sounds of:

• Cardinals 
• Titmice 
• House Finches 
• Chickadees
• Mourning Doves

Northern Cardinal singing on Sumac. Photo by Heather Kerrison. 

You can also listen for the highly recognizable Barred Owl call "Who Cooks for You". 

2. Birds are RETURNING

Several birds return from late February to early March. You heard me. Be on the look out for:

• Killdeer 
• Eastern Meadowlarks 
• Red-winged Blackbirds 
• Great Blue Herons 

Red-winged Blackbird. First sign of spring! Photo by Heather Kerrison. 

3. Wildlife are Mating 

Wildlife mating started throughout the month of February, meaning the young will be born closer to spring when venturing out into the world is a little less threatening.  Species that mate over the course of February include:

• Eastern Cottontails 
• Raccoons 
• Beavers 
• Skunks 
• Opossums 

Tree Swallow at a Nesting Box. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

So,  how can you prepare for a shift in season? Firstly, get your nesting boxes cleaned out for newcomers.  This way, they will be ready as birds start to arrive in the coming weeks. We've also stocked up on all of your nesting season needs in-store: 

• WBU Nesting SuperBlend, Our nesting blend is especially formulated with essential protein and calcium for nesting families. These, along with high fat content, provide the exactly what birds need to see them through pre-nesting, nesting, and molting times. Protein helps feathers grow in, calcium supports healthy eggshell and bone growth, and fat-rich foods provide high energy for busy bird parents providing for their nest. 
• WBU Nest Building Material, Our packaged nesting materials are an easy way to offer your birds the materials they need for their home-building needs. Simply hang it up and let your birds take what they need to create a place of their own.
• Hummingbird Helper Cage and Nesting Material, Hummer Helper helps take the place of lichen, moss, and spider webs which hummingbird birds use in lining the tiny nests. Goldfinches, chickadees, titmice, and other birds will also use it for their nesting needs! This is the only material proven to be used by hummingbirds and endorsed by the Hummingbird Society. Refills are available for the Hummingbird Helper. 

Is anyone else widely excited about spring?! 

Hope this gave you lots to look forward to. 

Warmly, 

Heather