Spring Changes at the Bird Feeder
The month of March ushers in the return of the spring migrants to the bird feeders. By the middle of the month, red-wing blackbirds become regular daily visitors to my feeders. Male blackbirds arrive about two weeks before the females join them so that they can begin staking out their territories in the wetlands.
Flickers are showing up in larger numbers. They visit the hopper and suet feeders and also can be seen foraging on the ground. Flickers do nest here in central Minnesota.
With the warmer nights, raccoons have come out of their winter hibernation and are back on the prowl. They are fond of suet so best to make sure suet feeders have a baffle or long hanging pole to keep them from walking off with the entire cage.
I have not seen many raccoons yet this spring - not sure if this warmer winter with no snow cover has reduced their need to attack the feeders.
Suet cakes that are sold in bird feed and hardware stores work well this time of year. They are processed not to melt if the weather warms. There are many varieties now with all sorts of additives such as fruit, berries and mealworms. I think sticking with simple suet with sunflower seeds, cracked corn or millet work the best. Suet with peanut or other nuts will attract squirrels. And if April turns out to be a cold month, birds will appreciate having a higher fat food source.
Water is always a hit especially if conditions are dry.
For the past 10 days, I have had flocks of robins feeding in my backyard.
It is always a joy to attract birds to the yard with naturally grown foods.