We normally have purple finches (either individuals or very small groups)
visit sporadically in winter at our feeders. However this winter was
exceptional; in December they were seen weekly, but starting the last week
(since 12/26) they come daily. There are normally at least two feeding at
once. Although I have only seen a high count of 6 at the feeder at one
time, I have seen various combinations of either all males, all females or
a mix, and I would guess there may be 10 to 15 in total in our immediate
area. Not a plethora, but their daily consistency is very welcome. I
hope they return with more offspring next winter!
Similarly, I have also enjoyed daily feeder visits (also since late
December) from brown creeper and yellow-bellied sapsucker, to our suet
stations. There are at least two of each of these species at our house
this winter, but I have only seen them feed one individual at a time. In
past winters they normally are always present, but feed only
intermittently at the feeders. The daily consistency this winter was
exceptional, and I think this is odd given the mildness of weather here
this January and February.
Jeff Shenot
Croom MD |