Christmas Birdhouse

When it's time for the little birdies to come home for the holidays, what better destination than this snow-capped refuge-where Santa awaits them!

A Busy Time of Year

This is a very busy time of year. The holidays are right around the corner and we are making our plans. As we are out and about doing our shopping don't forget to purchase suet cakes and bird food for your decorative bird feeders. If you have been feeding the birds through the summer you must continue during the cold weather. These little guys have been counting on you to continue providing for their next meal.

Wren Bird Houses

Whether or not you choose a decorate birdhouse or a hanging wren bird house really doesn't matter. I don't think the birds really care. They're more concerned about getting in out of the weather. The bird houses offer them a place to rest, build a nest, or shelter them from the wind, rain, heat or cold.
Having bird houses also offer you the opportunity to learn more about the bird. Their habits, nesting routines and rituals, mating practices, their singing etc. This is a good pastime/hobby for you, your children and/or grandchildren.

Birdhouses and Birdfeeders

Whether you hang birdhouses or birdfeeders or both really is just your preferences. Birdhouses will offer shelter from the heat, cold, wind and rain, while the birdfeeders will feed them. If your goal is to learn more about the birds that frequent your premises I would advise that you hang both. You also might consider planting trees, bushes and a variety of plants that will specifically lure the birds in.

Swallows

Swallows are really very pretty. In fact, most birds are.
Swallows are excellent fliers, and use these skills to attract a mate and to feed. Some species, like the mangrove swallow, are territorial, whereas others are not and simply defend their nesting site. In general, the males select a nest site, and then attract a female using song and flight, and (dependent on the species) guard their territory. The size of the territory varies depending on the species of swallow; in colonial-nesting species it tends to be small, but it may be much larger for solitary nesters. Outside of the breeding season some species may form large flocks, and species may also roost communally. This is thought to provide protection from predators. For the most part swallows are insectivorous, but some will feed on fruits and other plants. Do you have swallow bird houses?

Lighthouse Birdhouse

A lighthouse is a tower, building, or framework designed to emit light from a system of lamps and lenses or, in older times, from a fire and used as an aid to navigation and to pilots at sea.
Lighthouses are used to mark dangerous coastlines, hazardous shoals and reefs, and safe entries to harbors and can also assist in aerial navigation. Once widely used, the number of operational lighthouses has declined due to the expense of maintenance and replacement by modern electronic navigational aids.
My Lighthouse Birdhouse reminds me of my trip to the ocean.

Birds

As a young child, I was fascinated with birds. They were small, many were really pretty, they sang beautifully, but most of all they could fly!! How? I couldn't understand how they were able to stay up in the air. (I guess for that matter, it will always be a mystery to me).
I was given a gift of an Audobon membership. Each month I received a book relating to birds and a workbook that I could paste stamps that came with the book in the appropriate place. I learned so much. Another way to learn is to add a blue bird house or a birdfeeder to your garden decor. Your children and grandchilden will absolutely love it!

Truth About Bats

Bats are misunderstood creatures that are generally quite harmless to people. They do not become tangled in your hair, nor do they attack humans. Contrary to misconceptions, disease transmission from bats to people is easily avoided. Never handle bats and the odds of being harmed will be extremely remote.
In more than four decades, public health records indicate that only 16 people in the United States and Canada have died of bat-borne diseases... Placed in perspective, this means that the odds of anyone dying of a disease from a bat are much less than one in a million. In contrast, in the United States alone more than 10 people die annually from dog attacks, not to mention dog- and cat-transmitted diseases. - Dr. Merlin D. Tuttle, America's Neighborhood Bats, University of Texas Press, Austin, 1988. In contrast, several children in a million are likely to die each year from encephalitis contracted through a mosquito bite.
In the Orient these gentle animals are symbols of good luck, long life and happiness. They are meticulous in their grooming, spending a fair part of the day and night combing and grooming their fur.
When bats fly, they navigate by means of an sophisticated echolocation system. The bat sends out signals of sound energy, which are reflected back, giving it the location of an object as well as its texture and other characteristics. They can avoid a single human hair with extreme accuracy, even in total darkness, giving lie to the myth that bats are blind.

Large 2 Story Corner BarnWood Birdhouse

When you think of recycling, what do you think of? Paper, glass, plastic?, how about barns? Yes, recycling is really a big deal these days. Well I found some birdhouses that are made from barnwood. Tearing done an old barn and reusing the wood to make barnwood birdhouses. Pretty unique idea don't you think?
This two story rustic birdhouse is a unique approach to a unique corner location. Measuring a staggering 18" tall and 10" long and wide, this house is the perfect addition to your rustic garden decor. The bird home features three separate holes; each hole is approximately 1.5" in diameter and the top one goes through to the main dwelling. These beautiful two-story bird houses are also available in a variety of colors (only the main dwelling is painted),and feature square cut barnwood perches and a removable base for seasonal cleaning.

So What Do They Do?

Did you know that all birds do not hibernate? So what do they do? They still need food and shelter. And for the most part they do it on their own, and they don't need our help. But what if we have an unusual winter? The snow is deep and the ground is covered. I'm sure the birds will be grateful for a full birdfeeder, and it won't matter whether it is a decorative feeder or a unique feeder.

Rustic Birdhouse

I like the idea of this "log cabin" look This rustic birdhouse is one of many of the web and in stores. It just seems to blend into the scenery of a natural setting. It also has plenty of room for its occupants. What bird wouldn't love to move in right away?

Bread Box Window Feeder

Wow what do you think of this? I'm not much for cold weather, and I do love watching the birds. I love things that are different and I think this unique birdfeeder might offer a near perfect experience while I sit in the comfort of my home.
2-way mirror lets you watch feeding birds up-close, but they can’t see you! Designed to sit inside the house, this feeder is easy to install with our unique dove-tailed, sliding side panels. Simply place the feeder on the windowsill and slide the panels out to fit the window. Easy to fill and clean from inside your home. Fits most double hung windows from 26 in to 36 in wide. Made in the USA of plantation grown Mahogany

Birds are hungry

Birds are hungry. We all know that birds can survive without our help, but feeding them does help us both. Some ornithologists have even suggested that bird feeding is more beneficial to humans than it is to the birds. Studies have shown that birds with access to bird feeders in winter survive at a higher rate than birds without access to feeders. Feeding birds in winter is a good thing for the birds. If you live where there is winter weather , a blast of wind and snowy weather will mean making an extra effort to keep the feeders going for the birds.
Here are some ideas to help you prepare your feeding station for the worst of weather. Be prepared to have plenty of seed, suet and peanut butter on hand. You might place some dried grass or wood shavings in the bottom of your wood birdhouses. You could even cover the vent holes with some weather stripping (the birds won't need this source of air in the winter). Some birds are ground feeders, so you'll want to be sure there is an area that is clear of snow so you can sprinkle seeds on the ground.

Purple Martin Birdhouse

Now is a good time to lower your purple martin birdhouse. This will make it easier to reach in and clean it out. You may also need to do some repairs on it. By doing this now, it will be ready for new families in the spring and save you very much needed time when the weather breaks

Wooden Birdhouses and Feeders

WOW!! I've seen so many flocks of birds lately. It is a sure sign that the weather is beginning to cool down and winter is around the corner. The birds are heading south.
I've placed some wooden birdhouses and feeders around, so that when they need to stop and eat or rest there'll be plenty for them. Are you prepared?

Hanging Bird Feeders

With the onset of the cooler temperatures, we have been "cleaning up" our yard and flower beds. One of the things we do when pulling our sunflowers is to cut the dried head and place them in hanging feeder. When we have the giant sunflowers we often will leave the head on something high....perhaps the swing or picnic table. The birds will have fun cleaning out the seeds

Duck Houses

The Bufflehead, with its striking white sides and white patch on its head, is smaller than most cavity nesting ducks. They are dependent on nest boxes.
Breeds in Alaska east to western Quebec, and south in mountains to Washington and Montana. Winters in southern U.S., south to Mexico, Gulf Coast and northern Florida.

Fancy Birdhouses

Whether you have a fancy birdhouse or the natural rustic birdhouse, it's time to make sure that they are clean and in good repair. The cold weather is coming and our little feathered friends will appreciate a clean dry place to rest or stay over as they begin the long trip to a warmer climate.

Preparing For Winter

The birds are beginning to plan for winter. Are you? Birds have already begun to scout for food sources for the winter. As they flit about, they're watching for food, watch and shelter. When the cold weather begins, they will know exactly where to go, so now is the time to make sure that you have bird feeders are ful. And be sure to keep them filled, as they will come to depend on this source once they have begun to use it.
This is also a good time for you to prepare lodging (if you haven't already done so) for them.

Butterfy Houses

Who doesn't enjoy seeing a butterfly. They are so beautiful and graceful. They flit from flower to flower, to bushes and trees. Sometimes they land on other things. Yesterday while sitting on the front porch a butterfly appeared and landed on my husbands' hand. The moment was so surreal. Was it trying to communicate? I don't know. We know we just sat as still as could be so as not to scare it away, and we enjoyed the moment admiring one of God's creatures. What can you do to encourage butterflies to your yard? Do you have colorful plants or a butterfly house?

Attracting Birds to Your Backyard

With thoughtful planning you can encourage specific birds to your backyard. Do you have favorite types of birds? You can hang any birdfeeder in your backyard. Perhaps you like it because it is whimsical. Maybe the design follows a particular theme, be it color, shape or size.
But did you know that certain foods and seeds will attract specific birds? Be creative and see what you can attract with a variety of foods. Try popped popcorn (without salt or butter), hulled sunflower seeds, peanuts, soaked raisins, pieces of fruit (orioles like oranges), fruit seeds (melons, apples), grapes, or mealworms.

Bat Houses

Bats are in need of protection if they are to survive. They have proven themselves as valuable members of our ecosystem, and we must increase the awareness of people who have the ability to protect or to destroy these little creatures.
Bats are declining, world-wide, at an alarming rate, due to human misunderstanding. They have typically only one offspring per year, making their comeback slow and in need of our help.
Bats eat an amazing amount of mosquitos. Some experts estimated that one bat can eat between 600 to 1000 insects, mosquitoes included, within a period of one hour. An the guano is a great fertilizer for your garden.

Barn Swallow

Barn Swallows breed from Alaska across Canada, throughout the United States, and south through central Mexico. With the proliferation of human-provided nesting sites, the North American Barn Swallow population has increased in most places during the 20th century. Numbers are especially up in the central and eastern United States. Barn Swallows show strong fidelity to their natal site, most nesting within 20 miles of their birthplace and some much closer. Members of a pair typically stay together to raise a second brood and return in successive years to the same nest site. If you have the right habitat, barn swallows are easy to attract. A simple nesting perch may be placed under the eaves, inside a garage or barn, or on the side of a building.

Gold Finches

To encourage goldfinches into your yard, plant native thistles, sunflowers and other composite plants, as well as native milkweed. Almost any kind of bird feeder may attract American Goldfinches, including hopper, platform, and hanging feeders, and these birds don’t mind feeders that sway in the wind. You’ll also find American Goldfinches are happy to feed on the ground below feeders, eating spilled seeds. They’re most attracted to sunflower seed and nyjer, which is a thistle seed.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) is a medium-sized plover.
Adults have a brown back and wings, a white belly, and a white breast with two black bands. The rump is tawny orange. The face and cap are brown with a white forehead. They have an orange-red eyering. The chicks are patterned almost identically to the adults, and are precocial — able to move around right after hatching. The killdeer frequently uses a "broken wing act" to distract predators from the nest.
Their breeding habitat is open fields or lawns, often quite far from water, across most of Canada, the United States, and Mexico, with isolated populations in Costa Rica and in the Pacific coast of South America. Killdeer nest on open ground, often on gravel. They may use a slight depression in the gravel to hold the eggs, but they do not line it at all, or line it only with a few stones. Since there is no structure to stand out from its surroundings, a killdeer nest blends marvelously into the background. Furthermore, the speckled eggs themselves look like stones.

FOLK ART WELCOME BIRDHOUSE

Invite a family of feathered friends to help you welcome all visitors in true countrystyle! This quaint ceramic birdhouse has the homespun appearance of a handmade treasure. Even the little birds will enjoy the roominess of this backyard birdhouse.

The Birth of Hummingbirds...

This made the rounds a few years ago - but it is worth seeing again. Enjoy......

Birth of a hummingbird This is beautiful and probably once in a lifetime experience, not many pictures.The Birth of Hummingbirds...Keep in mind the egg is smaller than a tic tac and a quarter fits theopening of the nest!This is truly amazing.Be sure to click on NEXT PAGE at the bottom of each page; there are 5pages in all. The last picture is amazing, the size comparison!A lady found a hummingbird nest and got pictures all the way from theegg to leaving the nest.It took 24 days from birth to flight. Because you'll probably never inyour lifetime see this again, enjoy; and please share. http://community-2.webtv.net/Velpics/HUM/

Birdhouses Plus: Hummingbirds

Birdhouses Plus: Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds

This past weekend we traveled to Missouri to visit with Uncle Les and his wife Rhonda. If you've been following along, you know how much we love birds....especially hummingbirds. I was so entralled I had to write again about the hummingbirds. Everyone always seems excited when they see a hummingbird. They are so small, and their ability to hover is a wonderment. We sat for hours watching their feeders!! Never have I seen so many hummingbirds at once!!! There must have been ten or twelve and on the last evening closer to twenty. Their feeders were hung from the patio roof so we were very close, in fact, we were able to stand within inches of the feeders watching these little guys come in for their treat.
They had 4 feeders. One hummingbird was named Moe and he would guard "his" feeder carefully, not letting the others come close much less drink from it. Besides the hum produced from their flying there was also some chattering which I had never before heard. Moe actually scolded the others as they attempted to fly near his feeder. I learned so much more about their traits as I studied them. If you don't have a feeder you really should get one, there are so many on the market, you will surely find one that fits into your decor. Won't you like to give it a try?

Backyard Birds

The most amazing thing, I think, about birds is their ability to fly. As you watch you'll notice that each species has its own way of maneuvering about. For example a crow flies petty staight (you've heard the old saying about directions "as the crow flies", while a sparrow is very erratic in its flight. The sparrow twists and turns staying close to the bushes because it is very vulneralbe to being attacked.
As you start watching the birds is your backyard you'll begin noticing some of their habits and patterns. Like when they arrive in the spring, when they begin nesting, when a storm is brewing and when they begin to migrate. It is really very fascinating. What kind of birds visit your backyard?

Dead Tree Stumps

Almost everyone that has had a tree taken down wants to remove the stump. They claim it to be unsightly. But what if you only had the tree top portion removed leaving several feet of the trunk standing? It could become quite a focal place in your backyard. Did you know that this would be one of the greatest attractants you could have in your garden? Not only will it attract birds for nesting holes, it will provide a great banquet table for the birds. I will also be a great birdwatching spot.

Decorative Barnwood Chalet

Weeds, an interesting thought, to say the least. Did you know that the number one attractor for birds is the number bane of gardeners? Yes it is the weed! The Bur Marigold, Dandelion, Ragweed, Pigweed, Lamb's quarters, Mulletin, Goldenrod, Dock, and Jewelweed are great for attracting birds. Hummingbirds love the blossom of the Jewelweed and Rose Breasted Grosbeaks feast on the seeds. With a little expert help you can pick and choose which Weeds will be best for your garden.

Garden Design Birdhouse

Garden Design products are hand turned on a lathe to produce an innovative design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. With ample size, drainage, ventilation and a 1-1/2" entrance hole, this unique birdhouse will attract a variety of birds. A brass entrance hole portal gives a decorative look and protects from predators. By removing two screws, the roof opens simply for cleaning after the nesting season is completed. Finished with a burnished wax, this birdhouse is an attractive addition to any backyard habitat.

Surf Shack Birdhouse

Today is such a warm humid day that I think I'll just hang out at the beach. Maybe I'll be able to find some friends hanging around the Surf Shack.
The surf’s always up at this happy little shack! Captivatingly cute birdhouse brings the beach to you and provides a cozy shelter for a crew of birdy beach combers. Witty touches include miniature surfboards, hand-painted signs, and even an island-style thatched roof.

Large Two Story Corner BarnWood Birdhouse

Check out this neat little birdhouse! Makes you wish you had one designed like this in a wooded setting. This two story rustic birdhouse is a unique approach to a corner location. Measuring a staggering 18 in tall and 10 in long and wide, this house is the perfect addition to your rustic garden decor. The bird home features three separate holes; each hole is approximately 1.5 in in diameter and the top one goes through to the main dwelling. These beautiful two-story bird houses are also available in a variety of colors (only the main dwelling is painted),and feature square cut barnwood perches and a removable base for seasonal cleaning.

Jelly Feeder

Tropical birds, which live on fruit all winter, are attracted to oranges and fruit jelly when they venture north. Place a bit of jelly, cut up fruit or even sugar water recessed cup, of this functional bird feeder and watch the fruit loving birds flock to it. Also, add a half an apple or orange to the skewer to attract orioles. Cup can also serve as a meal worm feeder to attract bluebirds.

Titmouse Houses

The Plain Titmouse is the western cousin and lives in the southwestern states. It is a small, gray bird with a crest, but it is all gray, without the rust or white accents.
Both birds hunt for insects by clinging to branches of trees and shrubs and peering into the crevices of the bark. They sometimes forage on the ground as well.
Their calls are similar, a whistled "peter, peter, peter."

Butterfly Vivarium

In the quiet of the garden I watch the butterflies as they flit about, from one plant to the next. Always on the move, stopping just long enough that I can take in their beauty. The colors are exquiste!! Reds, oranges, yellow, blues and greens. Then I recall how a catepillar changes into this beautiful creature. Wouldn't it be fun to watch this transformation

Song Birds

With the warmer weather, I'm in seventh heaven. I love having all the song birds in the backyard, and I love hearing them sing! You too can hear this symphony by encourageing these songbirds to visit, nest and feed in your backyard. It is so easy to encourage most birds. You probably already have trees, shrubs and flowers, now put up a birdhouse/birdfeeder and some food, and you'll be listening to a beautiful song or two also. Photo compliments of John and Carol Hollinsworth/USFWS

Golden Gilded Birdfeeder

It isn't too late to add birdfeeders or birdhouses to your garden decor.
Your garden visitors will like the royal treatment with this luxurious feeder! Burnished gold finish lends luster to a sculpted dish trimmed with doves and lilies; The deep bowl holds a generous amount of seed fit for any feathered king. This birdfeeder will add a bit of sophistication to yourbackyard scenery!

Hummingbird Feeders

I'm starting to get excited! When the weather turns colder we lose alot of our featured friends, so now that it is getting warmer and things are growing again we'll start seeing our feathered friends again. Namely the Hummingbirds.
Did you know that you can attract hummingbirds to your backyard? Plant brightly colored flowers and blooming bushes, and be sure to put your hummingbird feeders out. Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors.

Adorable Decorative Birdhouse

This adorable little decorative birdhouse is the perfect addition to your decor. It is a replica of a little cottage that you might find in a wooded area or at the lake. Complete with a screened porch to keep the bugs at bay.
There are so many decorative birdhouses on the market. It is so easy to complete a theme at a reasonable price.

Tree Spirit Birdhouse

I've been wanting to get some new birdhouses for our property. We live on a farm so some areas are "wild" while other areas are developed. My husband has always liked to feed the birds, while I enjoy watching and listening.
While searching the internet I found some really great birdhouses that fall into both categories: decorative and wild. I really liked this one, and I hope my grandchildren will also. Do you think it will frighten the birds?

You Can Lure Specific Birds

Did you know that you can lure specific birds to your backyard, like Cardinals, Bluebirds, Thrushes, Sparrows etc. You'll be the envy of neighbors having a chorus of songs like no other. It all has to do with the habitat, and the food.
For example, Sparrows like a meadow garden, a weedy field or a patch of prairie flowers. They really don't care for a "woody" area. You will be providing an area to nest as well as food they like.
After checking sources for the types of birds you like you will be better able to provide for them. What are you favorite birds?

New Life Begins

What a glorious morning!! It is so nice to wake up with the sun shining, the birds singing and a cool breeze blowing. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year. Everything is greening up, flowers are beginning to bloom, robins and other birds are beginning to show up as they return from their winter retreat. These are sure signs of life being renewed. It won't be long before we can witness new life as the eggs in the nest hatch. Do you feel as blessed as I?

Its a Great Day

Good Morning. The sun is shining and a great day is predicted....in the 70's. Boy have we been waiting for that!! And judging by the birds singing so have they. Do you have your bird houses and bird feeders ready and waiting for them. The birds will be searching for a nice place to nest so they can prepare for their new families.
It is so much fun watching the progress of the birds, building their nests (whether they are in a house, bush or tree) then watching the eggs, waiting in anticipation for them to hatch, then watching the hatchlings to an adult bird. And what an education for your young children or grandchildren.

Great Crested Flycatcher

The Great Crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus) lives in all states east of the Rockies and is common in open deciduous forests and orchards. It is a dark olive gray on the back, with a yellow underside and light gray throat. Its distinctive crest gives it its name, and it has a large bill. It is nearly 9" long and is the only eastern flycatcher to nest in cavities. In fact, it will nest in nearly any kind of cavity. It is a fiercely territorial bird.
In spite of its long bill, the flycatcher does not make its own cavity, depending on rotting trees or posts, or on holes made by woodpeckers or those provided by bird-loving humans. Flycatchers feed in the tops of trees, primarily on insects, and emit a loud "wheeeeep." They frustrate bird watchers, as they are more often heard than seen.
They are aptly named, as they may sit on a perch watching for insects, and then dart out and catch even a dragonfly in mid-air. They also eat beetles, bees and wasps, but do not eat many mosquitoes or gnats.
Flycatchers are known for using the skins shed by snakes in making their nests.

White Doves

Did you know that doves are members of the pidgeon family? They also make great pets . Doves are actually very gentle and they tend to adopt to a family. They will set with family membets or a personal object belonging to a family member.
Doves are also very inexpensive. They are quite charming birds and it is fun to watch their little antics and the different "coos" that they have. They actually have rituals that are fun to watch . Doves require very little. Given fresh food and water they will do quite nicely.

Finally It's Spring!!

Well it is finally Spring, and you will see more and more birds. Wouldn't it be nice if they were in your backyard? It is possibe. All you need to do is put up a few birdfeeders and birdhouses to attract them. It also helps if your backyard is bird friendly. Trees and bushes will help them to feel safe as they move about. Water features such as ponds, streams and /or birdbaths will also help.

Have a Happy Easter

It's Easter and it is soooo tempting to purchase live chicks and bunnies for your children and grandchildren. But, please reconsider. They really are not good pets for young children! Children want to play and handling these young animals so much is not good. In fact too much handling can cause stress for them and they could die, and this in turn causes stress for the child and you. It's a vicious circle.

Butterfly Houses

I love butterflies. They are so beautiful! They are graceful, quiet, and don't seem to bother anyone or anything. They just seem to go about their business flitting from one place to another, one flower to another. Doesn't it make you wonder how and why they were created? What their purpose is? Does their varied color have any signifigance? I'm not sure, but I think that they must be the most colorful creature on this earth.

Did You Ever Wonder....

Did you ever wonder how baby birds seem to stay in their nests without falling? Baby birds spend about 14 days in their nest, so what is it that keeps them from falling? Well they are born naked, featherless and are very squirmy. Fledglings will have stubby wing feathers and their tail feathers will be about half grown. As they change from a hatchling to a fledgling they have a very heavy bottom. This serves a purpose to keep them securely weighted in their nest.