Folks 

We had our first snow and first Fox Sparrow scratching around the front feeder this PM.  We also had Yellow-bellied Sapsucker on the peanut feeder.  The Sapsuckers have been around all year.  50+ Juncos, and a few White-throated Sparrows also came in w/ the snow.  

The flock of 35 Red-wing Blackbirds continue to eat their share of seed.  The mixed plumages are entertaining and educational to observe.  Only a handful of Cowbirds are joining in the feeding party.

Feed your birds, including the now famous Clay-colored Sparrow, and don't worry that it might hurt them.  When the feed to gone they move on.  In the meantime they get a friendly and needed boost of energy until they find their next food source.  They are smarter then humans.  They don't become dependent on welfare.

George