97
fal l
2011
Escarpment Magaz ine
Hawks and falcons are by far some of
the most impressive fliers out there. In
the fall migration these normally
loner birds will form into flocks and
travel together on epic adventures.
The last big
wave of birds
through here is
the finches and
the sparrows.
They come
through like
a flood of
wild energy.
They invade our yards
and look desperately for
whatever food is left.
Okay enough said about migration. So what can you do to
help out or enjoy the show. I recommend you clean up the
feeders, hang them out and get some seed out there and
see what comes along. I do remind you to keep it clean and
put out good seeds. Black sunflower seeds are better than
the big white striped ones – more oil and better nutrition for
the birds. The tiny black seed called “nyger” seed is good
for most of the little finches. I always keep some suet out in
a little cage dispenser to keep the woodpeckers happy too.
Place you feeder near the trees and shrubs, but not right
close to areas that predators can ambush the birds. Make
sure they can see all around them when they feed – they
feel safer that way. A source of water is always good too.
A simple bird bath is fine as long as you change the water
often – two or three times a week. You can find heated ones
that will keep the birds happy all year round and helps keep
the ice off on those frosty mornings. The feeders we put out
help the birds along the way – it doesn’t replace their nor-
mal diets and they don’t become dependent on us. It is just
a good way to boost the energy out there and to attract the
birds in for a closer look and we can appreciate them one
last time before the winter. If you really want to get involved
– buy some binoculars and get a bird book to help figure
out the mystery. Stay wild folks and enjoy the fall.
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