This year we have had a special treat at our bird feeders. In the middle of January we had some spectacular new guests: Evening Grosbeaks – gorgeous yellow, white, and black birds. We have never seen them here before. I gather that this year there is an “Irruption” in their migration pattern, and we are hoping they will stay long enough to be added to our Great Backyard Bird Count.
Every year, for four days in February, the world comes together for the love of birds. People are invited to spend time (as little as 15 minutes) watching and counting as many birds as they can find, and then reporting their findings. This community science event is a partnership between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada. For more information on how to participate in this fun and educational experience, check out www.birdcount.org. The dates are February 12 to 15. At Grapewood Farm we have been enjoying this exercise for several years, and last year we observed and recorded 22 different species of birds at our feeders. Please stay, Evening Grosbeaks, and make it 23!
