The holiday weekend was very warm and rainy here in Minnesota. Not only a brown Christmas but a very wet one as well. The Twin Cities is on target to have the warmest December in recorded history. And with the lack of snow cover, the birds have easy access to plenty of natural foods which might explain why birds at the feeders have been scarce.
The only oddity I am seeing this winter is an increase in the amount and regularity of mourning doves. I am having from 3 to 6 birds showing up daily at my hopper feeder.
Central Minnesota is usually the furthest north for wintering Mourning Doves. I rarely have them appear at the feeder in the winter months so this year is different. Maybe they can sense this winter weather is going to be less severe?
As for population concerns, the Mourning Dove is healthy and they appear to tolerate human activity well often nesting in suburban yards. It is the most widespread and abundant game bird of North America with an estimated population of 350 million. With their pointed wings and long tails they are quick, agile flyers often reaching speeds over 50 mph and can easily be confused with a small falcon when taking off. They will eat most bird seed with a preference towards millet and cracked corn. Cracked corn is the best option for ground feeders as it appeals to the widest range of birds.
