| The Berry Eaters: | ||
 Your yard can be a haven
for winter birds, even if you don’t put out feeders. Winter-fruiting
bushes and trees (like pyracantha, native toyon, junipers) can attract
some spectacular birds. A flock of Cedar Waxwings can suddenly descend
on a fruit-laden tree to provide a stunning decorative touch to a gray
winter day. Learn their high-pitched call and you will be more
likely to detect them. Then grab your binoculars and enjoy! |
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Cedar
Waxwing |
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Hermit
Thrush Another
berry lover that is more subtle in appearance AND behavior is the handsome
Hermit Thrush. This species breeds high in the mountains and spends
its winter in the valley. They are shy skulkers that generally stay
close to the ground under cover, but learning their little ‘chup’ note
will help you find them. |
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This is another species that breeds in the mountains and winters in our valley. They are mainly ground feeders and will come to millet or sunflower seeds in a ground feeder (or will feed on the seeds that drop from your hanging feeder). Dark-eyed Junco  |
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| Feeding ALL the birds: | ||
| One of the joys of bird feeding is the occasional unexpected diner. The birds you attract to your yard with your feeders are just the kind of winter smorgasbord the Cooper’s Hawk is looking for. These hawks are strictly bird-eaters and have learned that backyard feeders can be a good place to hunt. Don’t be upset if this guy eats one of ‘your’ birds. The seeds you put out are helping the little birds survive the winter and any birds that get eaten are helping this hawk do the same. It all just bird feeding. | ||
Cooper’s
Hawk (adult) |
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