Counting

As my long-time readers may remember, I count birds at my feeders during the winter months to participate in the Cornell Feeder Watch program. This data helps us understand how bird populations change or move to new areas of the United States and Canada or evaluate patterns of migration. It also helps us understand how they may be changing due to the challenges of climate change. I understand that some "people" believe that climate change is like a religion and optional as to whether you believe in it or not, but with all due respect they are idiots.  Birds tell us a great deal about changes in nature.

"Project FeederWatch is supported almost entirely by its participants. The annual participation fee is $18 for U.S. residents ($15 for Cornell Lab members). Canadians can participate by donating any amount to Birds Canada. These contributions cover materials, staff support, web design, data analysis, and the year-end report (Winter Bird Highlights). Without the support of our participants, this project wouldn’t be possible.

Project FeederWatch is operated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada. Since 2016, Project FeederWatch has been sponsored by Wild Bird Unlimited."

I have learned that the ground feeder birds such as White Throats will also fly up and try to use the hanging feeders when what drops below is gone.  They are not designed to 'bend' that way as they are bobbers, but they learn.  

Yes, a bit blurry!

I have learned that the best suet feeders for my woodpeckers include a plank to rest their tails just like they would naturally do against a tree trunk or branch. 

The Blue Jays are greedy and stuff their crops (a muscular pouch that is an extension of a bird’s esophagus used to store excess food prior to digestion) before leaving my bowl feeders. See his bulging crop?

I have learned that sometimes I get this rare visitor below, which I think is a thrasher.  I am all for thrashing away the old year!  Now I must get back to my counting.