Tuesday, 12 May 2009 @ 9.16 AM
Front Yard Birding
Over the past few years, we've made multiple attempts to draw the birds to the front of the house with both different planted flowers and an array of feeders. Finally though, we just gave up on that notion and took the feeders down because despite the feeders and food used, the birds just wouldn't have it. This is probably due to the fact that there was not much plant cover to make them feel safe until just recently.
Now that the willow bushes are nice and full, there's a lot more cover for the birds to come and stage to any feeders set up. A few weeks ago, there were a few American Goldfinches and Black-Capped Chickadees singing in the willow bushes.
Yesterday, we put the feeders back up to see if things would be different this time around. They were extra pieces for the set up in the rear of the house, so might as well put them to some use instead of them sitting under the deck rusting away, right?
After less than 24 hours, I've already seen 2 House Sparrows (ugh) eating off the ground under the new setup, and an American Goldfinch eating from one of the feeders! That was quick!! Let's hope the birds decide to stick around this time!
Despite my hatred for House Sparrows, I don't mind them eating the seed off the ground. Then at least there is less of a chance of that seed rooting and sprouting new growth that I have to then go and weed. I suppose I could apply some weed killer to that area to be preventive rather than reactive. Another item to add to the to-do list.