Beating the Blues with Bluebirds

Male Eastern Bluebird

The bluebird carries the sky on his back
- Henry David Thoreau

For many of us in the Upper Midwest, warm weather and sunny skies have eluded us this Spring.

I recently had the opportunity to get a respite from the depressing weather during a five-day trip to Arkansas to help my parents move into a new home.  The weather was beautiful, and the redbuds and dogwoods were in bloom.  What really boosted my mood, was the fact that their property already had two residents in the form of a pair of Eastern Bluebirds.

As an avid bird feeder and enthusiast, I have always envied those individuals fortunate enough to lure these beauties into their yards.  My wooded lot attracts many wonderful and rare species, but unfortunately bluebirds have remained on my "wish list".

Fortunately for my parents, the previous owner of their home had a properly sized and placed bluebird nesting box.  It was wonderful to wake to the sound of their beautiful song and watch as they carefully tended their nest and fought off intruding squirrels.  I gave my parents information on the number of broods to expect in Arkansas, where bluebirds are a year-round resident, and when they could safely clean the nesting boxes.

Eastern Bluebird on patrol

Back home in Wisconsin, I have returned to cold, gloomy days with the knowledge that Spring is indeed just a few states south and a few weeks away.

Sometimes it takes a brief change of scenery to break out of our funk and cure the blues.  I had not anticipated how much two tiny blue birds could improve my state of mind.

If you are fortunate enough to live in an area with open fields and grassy areas, you may have success in attracting bluebirds. For more information on bluebirds:  Cornell Lab of Ornithology-Eastern Bluebird

For details on providing the proper nesting box size and placement:  Nesting Box Plans


Belinda's Website

Adopt the Pace of Nature...

Forsythia on March 20th (2012) and (2013)

Adopt the pace of nature...her secret is patience.                         - Ralph Waldo Emerson

This is one of my favorite quotes, and this extended Winter season of 2013 has truly tried my patience.

The photos shown at the left were both take on March 20th.  Believe it or not, the one on the far left is from 2012.  The photo on the right from 2013.  For those of us who monitor birds and plants each Spring, this contrast has been nothing less than absolutely confounding!  

Living here just off Tichigan Lake in Southeastern Wisconsin, we had questioned whether or not the ice was ever going to melt.  This weekend, it finally happened. According to another local resident, this is the latest Spring he can remember in almost 40 years.  Coming on the heels of 2012's extremely early Spring, the contrast is significant.  This time last year my garden was lush with newly emerged hosta, daffodils, tulips, Virginia Bluebells and Bleeding Hearts.  This year, the only thing blooming are the snowdrops, and the crocus are struggling to break the surface.  I'm also embarrassed to admit I was just able to pull out my Christmas spotlights this weekend, as the ground had been frozen for that long.  There was no January, February or even March thaw this year.

Common Loons on Tichigan Lake

It has been a very long Winter to say the least, but the payoff came this weekend with the annual iceout.  While the number of migrating loons we experienced last year was next to none, this year's first glimpse of open water brought them in by the dozens.  In fact, the number of unusual migratory waterfowl this past week has been exceptional.  In addition to the many loons, there have been a significant number of buffleheads, mergansers and other varied species.

I guess when Mother Nature decides to take her time in bringing forth Spring, she also provides us with an abundance of beauty.  I am hopeful that as Spring slowly emerges, the numbers of other Spring migrants, including warblers, orioles and hummingbirds, etc., will be as spectacular as the waterfowl display.

Red-breasted Merganser on Tichigan Lake

It was this time last year that I was following the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird migration maps and anticipated that my local birds would be arriving earlier than usual. While there were many hummingbirds that did indeed arrive ahead of schedule in various areas...my hummingbirds and orioles arrived like clockwork during the first week of May, as they always do.

I guess what I take away from this unusual contrast in seasons is that nature does indeed have her own pace.  Perhaps rather than stressing out over it, we would all do well to accept it and make every attempt to adopt it.

Belinda's Website

In Anticipation of Spring

Robin Nest

Monitoring Migration

Winter is still maintaining its grip in this part of the country, but there is plenty to do in anticipation of the arrival of Spring.  One of my favorite websites to check out this time of year is Journey North.  It is a wonderful resource for following the migration of American Robins, Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds, Common Loons, Bald Eagles, Monarch Butterflies, as well as other species by utilizing a network of student and citizen scientists to log sightings.

Having advance notice of the arrival of some of your favorite birds will allow you ample opportunity to place nesting boxes, nesting materials and feeders at the appropriate times.  One of the main reasons that backyard birders are unsuccessful in attracting hummingbirds is because they often place the nectar feeder out too early or too late.  Following the updates and maps provided on Journey North will ensure your timing is right!  Having appropriately sized nesting boxes and nesting materials available around your backyard will enhance your chances of securing breeding pairs for the season.

Start Planting

If you are like me, you can't wait to get your hands in the dirt after the long winter months.  Now is a great time to go down to your local garden center and plan your bird garden.  Pick up a seed starter kit and plant up some bird favorites. If you are located in Southeastern Wisconsin, Burlington Garden Center is a wonderful source for seeds and knowlegeable staff to get you started!

Here are a few bird-approved perennials you can start from seed:

Purple Coneflower

- Aster

- Coreopsis

- Echinacea (Coneflower)

- Leucanthemum (Shasta Daisy)

- Rudbeckia - (Black-eyed Susan)

In no time at all, the warm weather will be here, and you will (hopefully) have some great starter plants ready to put into the ground in your backyard.  

Important Reminder:  Don't forget to take some time and properly clean out your existing bird feeders.  We often neglect them in the Winter, and a dirty feeder containing mold, mildew and debris is much less attractive to migrating birds.

Belinda's Website

Getting Ready for Winter

Blizzard of 2011 (Tichigan Lake)

While this photo may seem extreme, it is a reminder that those cold, blustery days are right around the corner.  Just about the same time that you turn your bird baths upside down for the season, you should be thinking about a fresh water alternative for your Winter birds!

You don't want to wait until it is 20 degrees or colder to drag out your heated birdbath. Get it set up and ready to go as the temperatures dip below freezing at night. Having an accessible water source is extremely important for wild birds, especially in the northern climates.  Even though we are surrounded by water here on our peninsula, the marsh and lake will soon be frozen, and it will be difficult for birds to get the open water they need.

Once you get your Winter birdbath set up, don't forget to keep your feeders filled. Like anything else, it is easier and much more enjoyable to be outside when the temperatures are warm.  However, the birds have fewer natural food resources in the winter, so it is important to maintain your feeders...especially during severe cold snaps.

The platform feeder above is mounted on my deck, and is within a few steps of my patio door.  Even when the snow piles up, I can easily maneuver my way to deposit fresh seed.  If you are not already offering suet at your feeding stations, Winter is a great time to do so.  Suet provides "high-energy" nutrition at a critical time of year.

I enjoy feeding the birds year round.  However, there is something about sitting with a cup of coffee on a cold, snowy day and watching the birds that gives me a real sense of comfort.

Happy Birding!

Belinda's Website

    

Looking for Loons

Common Loon (Non-breeding Adult)

Today I caught a glimpse of five Common Loons as they made a migration stop on Tichigan Lake. While the conditions were not conducive for taking a good photograph, I recognized their unmistakable profiles despite their Fall plumage. See photo (left) courtesy of Cornell Lab of Ornithology

These icons of the Northwoods are easy to ignore this time of year because they have lost their distinguished black and white markings and taken on a less dramatic appearance.  However, careful observation of their shape and graceful swimming style will quickly help make a positive identification.

Have you ever wondered where these "snowbirds" go to spend their winter months?  You may be surprised to learn that like many of us, they choose to hang out along the warm coastal waters of the United States.  If you are planning a trip to a warmer oceanside location this winter, keep an eye out for loons.  Despite the fact that they do not put on a vocal performance like they do during the breeding months, there is still something mesmerizing about viewing these elegant creatures as they move through the water.

For more information on Common Loons, visit this link at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Common Loon.


Belinda's Website

Send Squirrels Packing with Safflower

Gray Squirrel

I don't have to tell anyone who regularly feeds the birds what a challenge it can be dealing with squirrels.  The constant battle to keep these critters from emptying your bird feeders can drive almost any bird enthusiast insane.

Fortunately, I have discovered that I can turn almost any type of bird feeder into a squirrel-proof feeder by simply providing safflower seed, as opposed to offering black oil sunflower or a bird seed mix.

Safflower is known as one of man's earliest crops, and has had various culinary, cosmetic and medicinal uses throughout history.  In recent years, it has gained favor among individuals who enjoy backyard bird feeding. While being a favorite meal among "desirable" birds, including cardinals, chickadees, grosbeaks and nuthatches, squirrels do not particularly care for its taste.

If you have a favorite feeder that has become a victim of regular squirrel raids, try replacing what you are currently feeding your birds with "straight" safflower.  I have done this in all the feeders in my yard that are not currently squirrel proof. They are frequented regularly by my favorite birds, while the neighborhood squirrels pay them no attention at all.

In addition to being a deterrent to marauding squirrels, the bright white seed also adds a nice aesthetic touch when filled in a decorative feeder.  Safflower can take the place of any seed you are currently using in a fly-through, hopper or tube feeder.

Give it a try and pick up a bag of safflower the next time you need fresh bird seed. It will save you money in the long run and might just become your "new" favorite as well!

Safflower Seed

Note:  Use of safflower is not 100% squirrel proof, as some squirrels may eat it on occasion.

Belinda's Website

Missed Opportunities

Cedar Waxwing

I would like to take credit for this awesome photo of a beautiful Cedar Waxwing, but unfortunately I cannot.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of having a flock of Cedar Waxwings converge on my yard and crowd the birdbath on my deck.  I knew immediately what was happening, as I saw the telltale signs of a waxwing flock.  My cedar tree was filled with birds, and the limbs were moving as if the tree were actually "alive".  I peered out the window onto my deck and saw a half dozen waxwings enjoying my birdbath.

What's wrong with this scenario?  After realizing that I had a wonderful opportunity to capture some great photos, I discovered that both batteries for my Olympus camera were dead!  I couldn't get a single shot off.  By the time I loaded a battery into the charger, and had it sufficiently charged...the Cedar Waxwing flock had moved on.

I advocate that bird watchers should always have a camera handy should that elusive "bird" moment arrive.  I guess I need to remind birders to also make sure you have fully charged batteries in "said" camera.

While I missed what was most likely a "once-in-a-season" opportunity, I have learned a very important lesson.

For more information on this fascinating species, check out Cedar Waxwings at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website @ Cedar Waxwing.

Belinda's Website