Finches

We have a number of the finch family visiting our feeders. The American Goldfinch has a penchant for nyger seed, and the House Finches prefer the sunflower seeds. Both these birds add to the lilting sounds of your garden immeasurably in the spring as they hang out with filled tummies, basking in the sunlight.

See Juncos and Towhees

Junco

The Dark Eyed Junco is the first sign that fall is here, and winter coming.

Most of the time they are around us, they make a slight 'clicking' sound, and then, like a lot of the song birds, the males break out in chorus when spring is here, trying to woo a mate.

Moving water is a bird magnet. When it rains, it is common to see a lot of birds bathing, around early afternoon. One bird will get the urge, and then the others, because of the moving water caused by the first bird, must follow.

At right, getting behind the ears. The lack of fear of water is amazing.

I guess the need for cleanliness overrides any fears they have.