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18 | OHCC LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020 | Birdwatchers Landscaping For The Birds Here in OHCC putting out bird feeders can attract rats, so how can we attract birds into our yards in other ways? Birds will come seeking food, water, and shelter. Let's look first at the plants we can grow in our gardens. A small tree can provide cover where small birds, such as sparrows, finches, warblers and flycatchers can safely hide from predators, like the Cooper's Hawk, or gather to feed on small insects or sap. Almost every morning a flock of around 30 Bushtits arrives to consume tiny aphids from the leaves of my Honey Locust tree. Recently a Ruby- crowned Kinglet has joined them, and an occasional Yellow-rumped Warbler and Orange-crowned Warbler (see photos). The insects provide much-needed protein. Even Hummingbirds have been seen hovering under the leaves, picking off ants. Some trees also provide berries in the Fall and - who knows? – you may attract a flock of Cedar Waxwings, if you are lucky. Be aware, though, that fruiting trees can bring out the rat pack. Recently I planted Zinnia seeds. The rough leaves have proved popular with Lesser Goldfinches who shred them and eat them like salad - excellent roughage apparently. If I allow the flowers to go to seed, rather than cutting them off when they finish, the House Finches will be delighted to help themselves. The same applies to many varieties of salvia. It is very entertaining watching small birds swinging on the long stems of these plants as they feed. Rather than sweep away fallen leaves, why not make a brush pile which will provide a home for many harmless insects and encourage Spotted and California Towhees, as well as Song Sparrows to forage? Many of the shrubs in my yard have tubular-shaped flowers full of nectar perfect for the Allen's Hummingbird (which seems to own the place!) and the many visiting Anna's Hummingbirds. Native plants are obviously best, but many varieties of vine are popular too. A hummingbird may visit the same plant dozens of times a day, because the nectar replenishes itself after every visit, sometimes within 30 minutes, if the sun is shining. Hummingbirds use so much energy beating their wings as they hover and zip, that they need to keep drinking nectar all day long. During the long, hot days of summer, birds are grateful for the water in a birdbath, bubbler, mister, or fountain. One of our sparrows also likes to dip his food in the water to soften it up! Moving water proves most alluring, but still water – which must be replaced regularly to prevent mosquitoes – gives birds a chance to wash off parasites and old feathers, particularly during molting. Remember, in stressful times, birdwatching can be very therapeutic. ~ Ann Baldwin Just in case: Check with your club contact to confirm meeting place, date, and time. Left: Two bushtits hanging out Above: Young Allen's beak in vine Top right: Song sparrow on honeysuckle Bottom right: Spotted Towhee on twig

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