Hi Valerie
We are having similar experiences here (Morgan/Magoffin counties in
eastern KY). The Goldfinch, Purple Finch, Dark Eyed Junco and Mourning
Dove populations are larger than I ever recall. All 5 of our sunflower
feeders are empty by early afternoon after being put out and filled around
7:30 AM daily.
Suet feeders are attracting Downys, Hairys, Red Bellieds, Flickers and WB
Nuthatches. Haven't seen the Sapsucker or Brown Creeper for a while.
Pileateds do flyovers sounding their alarms but don't land within 50 yards
of the feeding activity.
Cracked corn is the hot ticket for the Cardinals, Juncos, Doves and Blue
Jays. To date we have not been discovered by House sparrows, Starlings,
Grackles--which are rarely seen here. Hope I didn't just jinx myself.
Resident Chickadees and Titmice don't discriminate and are willing to eat
whatever and whenever.
Conspicuous for their absence this winter: White Throated Sparrows,
Siskins, House Finches and Carolina Wrens.
Have endeavored to keep a quantity of water available and am surprised how
quickly it gets consumed. I use a vinyl(?) shallow saucer that is about
24" in diameter and 2" inches deep. The kind that usually goes under
flower pots. I fill or refill it every morning.
Earlier this winter it was a windy 20 degrees when I made my morning
rounds at 7:30. Even with room temp water, the saucer had frozen over by
9:30 AM.
Not to worry, FLICKER to the rescue! He hopped up to the saucer and with
just 3 sharp pecks into the ice, he had accessed water. After drinking
what he wanted and leaving, his place was quickly taken by others. :)
Warmer temps recently have the Blue Birds twardling.
Happy birding
Doug Hennig
Morgan/Magoffin County, 14 miles SE of West Liberty
Not only do we have about 25 Goldfinches eating, but a dozen or so Purple
Finches are really going through the sunflower seeds.
Sent from my iPhone
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