It’s for the Birds
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July 4 is upon us. Now there will be only one holiday left for the summer of 2020, Labor Day weekend. How is that possible? My schedule seems like it gets busier and busier.
This summer, the rain has been plentiful. The crops look great. Hay has been good, and the yard never stops growing. Of course, we fertilized our front portion last fall. That really helps with the bad things but makes for a lot of mower time.
We have both discussed ways we could cut back on some of our mowing. We might eliminate one of the bluebird trails, and not mow as much in some of the bird areas.
Speaking of birds, so far I have had one clutch of bluebirds fly. It was so neat to watch them grow and thrive. I had had some bad luck early in the spring, and that is always so depressing when you are trying to have a successful season. I have a house of four right now just ready to fly. I have 10+ eggs being incubated right now, so I’m hoping for some good results. One of the nests is right here in my front yard – five eggs. I’m planning to get some meal worms to feed them so I can watch their progress.
I have one house with a Tree Swallow in it, and loads of fluffy feathers. I have several houses of Wrens. My favorite being right here on my front porch. The only place that I like them.
I have had my share of problems with the House Sparrows this year. Even on the trails, they and the Wrens completing took over two houses, combining nests and completely and thoroughly disgusting me. I follow a house sparrow page, and many people have similar problems with them. They can be eradicated if you have a trapping system or house trap. I have a trap and have had no luck.
I have been enjoying the Hummingbird, although for a while they slowed down, but they are back full speed. Sugar water always ready. I do have five feeders though and that makes for a lot of food.
I hope your summer is going somewhat normal with all that we have had to endure the past few months. I know it has changed things for us, but slowly we are getting back to hugging and church activities. I manage to stay so busy here at home that I don’t get lonely or bored too easily. It is terribly hard on the nursing home residents. I feel badly for them. Until next time, good bird watching.