To my surprise my birdfeeders have been quite busy for the first week of October. We routinely see feeders reduced to about half, or less, of the usual activity during October. However, I have seen considerable activity from Chickadees, American Goldfinch, Tufted Titmice, White-breasted Nuthatches, and even Red-bellied woodpeckers that may be almost non-existent around feeders this time of year. A bright spot has been the presence of several Rose-breasted grosbeaks in various plumages. There have been adult male and female, and juveniles in small groups of 2 to 4 at a time. Of course we see these birds by the dozens at feeders during their migration in the spring but not so much in the fall when there are more natural food sources available. Although numbers are fewer with each day that passes Ruby-throated hummingbirds are still being seen. Just yesterday I saw 3 very chubby hummingbirds sparring over some salvia. The latest I have seen a RT hummingbird in my yard is Oct. 28.
Adult male Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Adult female Rose-breasted grosbeak
Juvenile male Rose-breasted grosbeak
This article was brought to my attention just this morning and I thought it was interesting, timely, and worth sharing. Have a great weekend. Click here to read the full article.
