Winter is the time of year that brings the birds together, making for the perfect backyard theater. We can fill the feeder on Monday, and by Thursday, it is nearly empty. The sheer number of birds that we feed is astounding. They come in hordes throughout the day. The tufted titmice and chickadees generally take turns. The cardinals often wait until there’s a lull in activity before taking control of the food supply. I can tell when the red-bellied woodpecker wants to take control by the chatter-chi calls it makes—chi, chi, chi. He does this while grasping the green perch to guard his meal. After that, most birds leave, but the chickadee doesn’t let the biggest bird intimidate it. I find it exciting to watch the activity along the tree line where the feeders hang.

We’ve also added a separate mealworm dispenser for birds who prefer a high-energy protein source. At first, it didn’t get much action. The word must have spread through the neighborhood, though. The Carolina Wren is a common bird in Florida. One day I noticed the mealworm supply had shrunk significantly. At the time, I didn’t realize that wrens eat bugs primarily. So, I paid close attention to see if my suspicions were on point. Sure enough, the wrens were hammering those tiny golden worms as if they were the best thing they ever ate. However, they need to share them with the Cardinals and Woodpeckers.
Learn more about the Carolina Wren.

I recently learned that birds find it hard to locate fresh water during winter. So, I researched the best bird waterer to purchase. I’m happy that I did because I see many more species of birds visiting our yard.

The backyard feeder provides us with endless acts of chittering, chattering, and fluttering from our feathered acrobats. The concerts and dances are enough to fill our days. I tip my hat to the many creatures who never know the joy they offer. So, take a bow, my feathered friends, and eat until your hearts are content.