First Junco Arrives
Yesterday afternoon, I was looking out my back window when I saw something that brought a smile to my face. That unmistakable grey and white flitting. Alone for now but I know it’s just the beginning. That’s right…my first junco. I saw it milling about on the ground near my squirrel corn cob feeder and then actually climbing on it. Finally, they settled on the birdbath and began quenching what was sure to be a sizeable thirst. Spent a few minutes just taking in the sights and sipping. It brought a smile to my face. Let me explain why.
Winter Is Almost Here
Every year, around the middle to end of October, I see the first of my winter birds arrive in my backyard. Most of the time it’s the juncos but sometimes it’s the white throated sparrow. Either way, I know it’s time to start thinking about my winter feeding routines. Now is the time of year I start putting more millet out on my patio for the juncos, sparrows, mourning doves and any other bird that prefers feeding on the ground. I’ll also add safflower to the mix and may employ a platform feeder as well. There are other changes I make which I’ll talk about in the coming posts. I just wanted to share with you my first junco contact and what it means to me.
I know that for the next few months, my backyard friends will be depending on me to make sure they can find a reliable source of both food and clean water. I accept that challenge knowing that they will return to me in sheer enjoyment much more than I can ever repay them.
What birds do you look forward to returning to your yard? Leave me a comment and let’s talk about it.
Bluebird Video Update
I apologize as I got knee deep in the bluebirds leaving the nest editing project when I had to take care of another fire that came up. I am hoping to finish that video and have it posted on youtube within the next week or so. I’ll post another update when it finally gets uploaded. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
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