Merry Winter

On the cusp of official “winter” I am sharing this wreath adorned with some of the wild birds that visited our feeder in the depths of cold winter, February 2020. Starting from top left corner and going clockwise: Carolina Wren, White-crowned Sparrow, Hoary Redpoll (very rare siting that was confirmed by the IL Ornithological Records Committed), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, Purple Finch, House Finch – male, Field Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker, Fox Sparrow, Song Sparrow, House Finch – female. These photos were all taken across just four days when they visited the feeder and fresh water source we provide on my office patio.

Today, it’s below freezing here so I was inspired to create this avian wreath for the holidays.

If you live in a cold climate, please consider offering fresh water that the birds can access – their need for food is substantial to burn the calories to stay warm, but water is even more critical.