Guest Blogger Fatbirder

The USA is the third largest country in the world so it’s probably daft to try and select just ten birding destinations. Not only that but it also has vast areas of land designated as national parks or wildernesses where nature and wildlife have free reign. The most visited spots are not necessarily the best birding, but all of those mentioned are excellent places to bird and many are great places to meet fellow birders. Like birding in general timing is everything and some spots are on the list because they are migration hot spots. Although all have resident birds.

The state of Texas, with over 600 bird species is, in itself a top destination for birdwatching. It has a number of birding hotspots including the Gulf Coast, Big Bend National Park, and the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Almost any coastal site will afford a great day’s birding but two areas stand out.

High Island is a tiny town located on the Gulf Coast, this area is a top spot to observe migratory songbirds, where a tree covered rise in the landscape is a natural magnet for tired migrants in need of rest and recuperation. Falls of birds, particularly in spring are so predictable and regular that a raised seating area allows birders to sit and wait and see what turns up… you won’t be disappointed. Flycatchers, warblers abound.

Rio Grande Valley is a renowned destination for birders with over 500 bird species regularly recorded. It is special because for a lot of species including Green Jays, Chachalacas, Clay-coloured Robins and Great Kiskadee usually only occur south of the border with Mexico. The ‘World Birding Centre’ is a great place to get a feel for the area and its birds with its museum displays, hummingbird feeders and land train around the reserve.

Arizona can a whole state be considered a birding destination? The answer has to be yes because there is great birding from its border with Mexico, the Chiricahua Mountains to Sedona near the Grand Canyon. The state is home to many birding hotspots and good for a number of species found nowhere else in the USA.

It’s not surprising the warmer, southern states feature often in this list. The climate makes for overwintering birds from the north through to vagrants from central America. Moreover, coastal states like California and Florida are migrant areas because making landfall after a long flight gives more opportunities for rarities than most other places.

Canaveral National Seashore in Florida is a large area with a number of parks and preserves famed for their birds. In sight of the famous rocket launch pads, it is a popular birding destination, particularly for those looking to spot the Florida scrub-jay, a threatened species and the USA’s only true endemic which found only in Florida. Inland from Daytona, through the Orlando area and across to St Petersburg one can find many hot spots.

Everglades National Park, to the south, is home to a diverse array of water birds, including the Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, and Anhinga. Vast areas exhausted by over intense agriculture have had to be given back to wildlife and, in places, it teems with birds as well as deer and alligators. Unfortunately, it is also now the world stronghold for Burmese Python and other ‘exotics’ released as they outgrown their pet status.

Point Reyes National Seashore, across the bay from the California’s Golden Gate Bridge has a really diverse habitat with over 400 bird species, including the endangered California Condor, and other species found nowhere else in the US.

Monterey Bay, John Steinbeck’s old stamping ground, is a prime location for seabirds and is home to several gull species including the western gull and other seabirds such as common murre. The area is also good for marine mammals.

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico is also an excellent destination for birders as it offers some real spectacles such as massed Sandhill Cranes and Snow Geese.

The north has its share of migration hot spots including the most famous of all Cape May where bird races are held every year at the peak time for migration.

Cape May in New Jersey offers fantastic opportunities to observe raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds. When poor weather stops birds reaching their most northern nesting grounds Cape May can be a rest over for hundreds of thousands of warblers covering the whole spectrum of American warblers before they move on.

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area in Ohio is known as the ‘Warbler Capital of the World’, this area is a must-visit during the spring migration. It is so good because it’s a natural magnet for birds who need to feed up ready to hazard passage across the great lakes. Point Pelee in Canada is where these tired migrants are often funnelled through to make land fall again.

Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon is a vital stopover for migratory waterfowl, travelling the western route with over 400 bird species regularly recorded.

Central Park in New York City is a birding hotspot in the heart of a city, known for its migratory warblers who drop into the greenest area of the city. It is also full of resident species including Red-tailed Hawks that patrol the high-rise apartments that circle the park.

Alaska is known for its vast wilderness and particularly its reputation for turning up rare vagrants from Eurasia. In the brief clement months many species, such as bald eagles and tundra swans take advantage of its wild abundance to nest and breed before flying south again. Homer in Alaska is known as a great place to observe seabirds, such as Tufted & Horned Puffins, and Common Murres.

You will notice I’ve cheated and gone over my quota of top US birding locations because it’s so hard to narrow down to these handful. The top listers manage to see over 700 species in mainland USA.

Guest Blogger FatGardener

There are many plants that are wildlife-friendly and can attract a variety of birds, insects, and other creatures to your garden as well as enhance its intrinsic beauty.

Here are my top ten for the birds and bees but our enjoyment of their beauty too:

Lavender – This fragrant plant is known as a major attractor of bees and butterflies to your garden. Moreover, it is versatile as individual plants or a low hedge that releases its fragrance as you brush against it. In these times of climate change its an all-weather wonder that is drought resistant.

Buddleia – Also known as the butterfly bush, this plant produces large clusters of flowers that attract a wide variety of butterflies and other insects. It can grow practically anywhere and thrives on neglect.

Honeysuckle – The sweet scent of honeysuckle is attractive to bees and other insects because it is rich in nectar. It is usually grown as a climber but will work as a standard bush too. Essential in every garden for its enticing aroma. There are evergreen species for year-round interest. The fruit are also eaten by birds.

Foxgloves – These tall flowers are great for attracting bees and particular bumblebees that crawl deep inside the flowers. Cultivated varieties are available in white and peach colours as well as the wild pink of woodland glades.

Echinacea – Also known as coneflower, with large round spikey flowerheads, it is popular with many insects including bees and butterflies.

Sunflowers – Sunflowers can attract a variety of birds, such as finches, who love to feed on the seeds. The flowers are huge and beloved by many pollinators too. Leave the seedheads standing overwinter for the birds to find.

Black-eyed Susan – This North American native wildflower is great for attracting butterflies and bees wherever it is grown.

Holly – Holly bushes can provide food for a variety of birds, from Autumn or overwintering Blackcaps to winter thrushes such as Redwings and Fieldfares. The prickly leaves can deter predators so they also provide cover for roosts and nests.

Ivy – Ivy provides excellent shelter for small animals such as hedgehogs and birds. It is vastly underated by gardeners who often see it as a menace as it climbs their prize trees. However, it sustains many invertebrates with its flowers attracting bees and wasps and other pollinators in late summer and its berries sustain birds from migrating Lesser Whitethroats in Autumn to Winter Wood Pigeons.

Snowdrops – These early spring bulbs are a great source of nectar for bees emerging from hibernation, when there are few other sources. Of course, they bring hope of things to come from us gardeners too.

Keep in mind that planting a variety of plants with different flowering months can give sustenance throughout the year. Flowers, shrubs and larger bushes and trees can help create a diverse habitat too, that will attract a wide variety of wildlife to your garden.

Guest Blogger Fatbirder

Birding is a hobby that has been enjoyed by many people for decades, but its only in the last thirty years when optics have become lighter and more durable as well as consistently good optically. Connecting with nature and observing the beauty of birds up close has been proven to be great for your peace of mind and physical wellbeing. Ther essential tool for birding is a good pair of binoculars. Binoculars enable bird watchers to see birds in their natural habitat and appreciate their beauty and behaviour more easily. In this article, we’ll be listing some of the very best birding binoculars to help you make an informed purchasing decision. But always TRY BEFORE YOU BUY to see what suits your eyes and arms as well as your pocket.

Opticron Range

Many birdwatchers agree that the best all round, value for money, birding binoculars are found in the Opticron stable. Optically first class they combine class with affordability. Opticron has become a well-known brand in the world of birding binoculars, offering a range of high-quality options. The best Opticron binoculars for birders will depend on personal preferences, budget, and specific needs, but here are some top options to consider:

Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 10×32 Binoculars is slap-bang in the middle of their price range and perhaps one of their most popular for birders. Opticron Discovery WP PC 8×42 Binoculars offer excellent image quality, waterproofing, and durability at an affordable price point. They have a wide field of view, making it easier to spot and track birds. Opticron DBA VHD Plus 8×42 high-end binoculars offer exceptional image clarity, colour accuracy, and detail. They have a wide field of view and are waterproof and fog-proof, making them ideal for birding in any weather. Opticron Traveller BGA ED 8×32 compact binoculars are perfect for birders who need to travel light. They offer excellent image quality and a wide field of view despite their small size.

Vortex Optics Viper HD

The Vortex Optics Viper HD Binoculars are also a popular choice among birders due to their terrific performance in all lighting conditions – they feature a high-density, extra-low dispersion glass that provides excellent clarity and colour accuracy. It boasts excellent optics, impressive build quality, and a comfortable grip. The binoculars are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around. The lenses are coated with anti-reflective materials to reduce glare, making them ideal for birding in bright sunlight. The Viper HD also features an adjustable eyecup, making it comfortable for people who wear glasses. They also have a rugged construction that makes them waterproof and fog-proof, making them an excellent choice for use in damp conditions.

Further up the costs scale are:

Nikon Monarch 5

The Nikon Monarch 5 is a top-rated binocular for birding. It features ED glass, which provides a clear and bright image, even in low light conditions. The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof, making them suitable for birding in different weather conditions. The Nikon Monarch 5 is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. It also features a close focus distance of 8.2 feet, allowing you to observe birds up close.

Then we come to the pricier, but top-quality optics for birders: All three brands have their devotees, none come cheap and all are extremely good optically with the added bonus of durability and really good after sales service and long guarantee periods. 

Zeiss Terra ED

The Zeiss Victory SF Binoculars are a high-end option for birders who want the best of the best. These binoculars feature a wide field of view and a lightweight, ergonomic design that makes them easy to use for extended periods. The Victory SF Binoculars also feature a high-quality optical system that delivers sharp, clear images with excellent colour accuracy. The Zeiss Terra ED is another popular choice for bird watchers. It features Schott ED glass, which provides a clear and bright image, even in low light conditions. The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof, making them suitable for birding in different weather conditions. The Zeiss Terra ED is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. It also features a close focus distance of 5.25 feet, allowing you to observe birds up close.

Leica Ultravid HD-Plus

The Leica Ultravid HD-Plus Binoculars are another high-quality, premium option for birders. These binoculars feature a high-quality optical system that delivers sharp, clear images with excellent colour accuracy. It features fluoride lenses, which provide a clear and bright image, even in low light conditions. The Ultravid HD-Plus Binoculars also have a rugged construction that makes them waterproof and fog-proof, making them ideal for use in all weather conditions but are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around. It also features an exceptional close focus distance of 6.2 feet, allowing you to observe birds and insects up close.

Swarovski EL

The Swarovski EL is another really popular high-end, premium binocular for birding. It features high-density glass, which provides a clear and bright image, even in low light conditions. The high-quality optical system also delivers excellent colour accuracy The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof, making them suitable for birding in different weather conditions. The Swarovski EL is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. It also features the very best close focus distance of 4.9 feet, making it ideal for those birders who take an interest in moths, butterflies, odonata and the like.

Guest Blogger Fatbirder

Binoculars are an essential tool for birdwatchers, providing the ability to view birds up close and in detail. But not all binoculars are equally useful for birdwatching, there are certain features to look for to ensure you have the best experience possible.

In this article, we will explain what you need from binoculars and which features and options are most useful for birdwatching. This should also help you better understand reviews you read of different makes and models being field-tested.

Magnification

One of the most important features to consider when choosing binoculars for birdwatching is magnification. Generally speaking, a magnification of between 7x and  10x is what birders need. A magnification of 8x is the most common and provides a good balance between magnification and stability. Higher magnifications may provide more detail, but they can also make the image appear shakier, making it harder to focus on the bird. When you are birding in woods and other closed in habitats you need the lower magnification as you are generally looking at objects closer to you. Lower magnifications usually mean the lens size is smaller too. So 8x magnification is usually 32mm objective lens size.

Objective Lens Size

The objective lens is the lens at the end of the binoculars that is furthest from your eyes. It determines how much light is gathered and, therefore, how bright the image appears. A larger objective lens will gather more light and provide a brighter image, but it also means a larger, heavier pair of binoculars. This is usually expressed as the size of the lens in millimetres.  A lens size of around 40mm is a good balance between image brightness and weight and most often goes with a larger magnification. Birding binoculars for wetlands and open landscapes where birds tend to be further away are best viewed with 10 x 42 binoculars.

Image Quality

Image quality is another crucial factor to consider when choosing binoculars for birdwatching. Look for binoculars with high-quality optics that provide a clear, sharp, and detailed image. Binoculars with high-quality coatings on the lenses can also reduce glare and provide better colour reproduction, making it easier to distinguish different bird species. ED or HD lenses are now the standard, do not settle for less.

Field of View

Field of view is the width of the image you can see when looking through the binoculars. A wider field of view can make it easier to spot and track moving birds. However, a wider field of view often means a lower magnification and reduced detail. Consider the type of birding you will be doing and choose a field of view that suits your needs.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and the viewer’s eye when the binoculars are in focus. A longer eye relief is important for birders who wear glasses or sunglasses. Birders typically look for binoculars with an eye relief of around 14mm to 18mm. Retractable eye-cups are helpful for spectacle wearers too, as sometimes its better for one’s spectacle lenses to be tight against the binocular’s lenses.

Dioptre Adjustment

Most of us do not have exactly the same eyesight in both eyes. In fact, it’s not unusual to be long-sighted in one and short-sighted in the other. This is where a dioptre comes in, it is a way to adjust one of the lenses so that the focus and clarity match the other. In better binoculars the amount of adjustment possible will be greater than in cheap and cheerful models.

Durability

Birding takes place outdoors, often in rugged environments and unpredictable weather, so durability is an essential consideration. Look for binoculars that are waterproof and fog-proof to ensure they can withstand exposure to rain, humidity, and dew. A rubber coating or armour can also provide shock absorption and protect the binoculars from bumps and drops.

Weight and Comfort

Finally, consider the weight and comfort of the binoculars. Birding can require extended periods of observation, so you want a pair of binoculars that won’t strain your neck or cause fatigue. Look for lightweight binoculars with comfortable grips and adjustable eyecups to ensure a comfortable viewing experience.

Part of comfort is the carrying strap. The best makers included a wide, padded strap that better distributes weight and will not cut into bear skin. Rain-guards and dust-caps also protect the lenses. Birders should remove sand and dust from lenses with a soft cloth or, better still, a brush. Keeping your equipment clean after each trip will ensure their longevity.

Appearance

For the most part the look of the binoculars makes no difference to their use, excepting that bright colours or shiny surfaces may disturb the wildlife you want to watch. However, we all have ascetic sensibilities so how they look will probably matter to you. All metal cased binoculars used to be black but can now be almost any colour. However, most birders prefer dull colours with black, dark grey and dark green being the most favoured

So, when choosing binoculars for birdwatching, consider the magnification, objective lens size, image quality, field of view, durability, weight, and comfort. By finding a pair of binoculars that meet these criteria suitably, you can enjoy a comfortable and satisfying birdwatching experience with sharp, clear, and detailed images of the birds you’re observing.

Guest Blogger Fatbirder

Birds are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colours, and they bring joy and beauty to our lives. But as much as we love them, birds can also carry diseases that can be dangerous to humans.

One of the most well-known diseases associated with birds is avian influenza, also known as bird flu with it recently spreading from domestic fowl widely among some wild species. This highly contagious virus can infect both domesticated and wild birds, and it can also be transmitted to humans who come into close contact with infected birds or their droppings. Symptoms of avian influenza in humans can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be fatal.

Another disease that can be caught from birds is psittacosis, also known as parrot fever. This bacterial infection is most commonly associated with pet birds, especially parrots and other psittacine birds. Humans can contract the disease by inhaling dust or dried faeces from infected birds or by handling contaminated food, water, or other objects.

In addition to avian influenza and psittacosis, there are several other diseases that can be caught from birds. For example, salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that can be contracted from pet birds, poultry, and other birds. The bacteria are found in the droppings and intestinal tracts of infected birds, and humans can become infected by consuming contaminated food or water, or by handling contaminated objects.

Other diseases that can be caught from birds include cryptosporidiosis, histoplasmosis, and toxoplasmosis. Cryptosporidiosis is a parasite infection that can be contracted from contaminated bird droppings, while histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that can be contracted from bird and bat droppings. Toxoplasmosis is a parasite infection that can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, or by handling contaminated objects.

In conclusion, while birds bring beauty and joy to our lives, it is important to be aware of the diseases they can carry and to take steps to protect ourselves. This includes avoiding close contact with sick or dead birds, washing our hands thoroughly after handling birds or their droppings, and avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked poultry. By taking these simple precautions, we can continue to enjoy the beauty of birds without putting our health at risk.

Guest blogger the Grumpy Old Birder Weighs In

As a seasoned birder with decades of experience, I’ve heard all sorts of ridiculous questions in my day. But as it goes, this one is not as daft as it first seems. Are birds cold-blooded? My first thought was “Are you kidding me? I swear, some people these days don’t even know the basics of avian biology”. But, I suppose if there are still people out there asking this question, then it’s my duty as the grumpy old birder to set the record straight.

First off, let’s define what we mean by ‘cold-blooded’. In biological terms, this refers to animals that are unable to regulate their internal body temperature and rely on external sources, such as the sun or ambient temperature, to warm up or cool down. These animals are often referred to as ‘ectothermic’. Reptiles are like this… which is why you see lizards and snakes sunning themselves waiting to warm up before they get going, and why reptile species are much more common in the tropics.

Wait a minute, I hear you say, dinosaurs were reptiles and birds came from them so they must be cold blooded too? Wrong! The thing is, some dinosaurs were cold blooded like the stegosaurus, and some hot blooded like T-Rex… no wonder you are confused about birds. Crocodiles evolved from the cold-blooded sort, and birds from the warm-blooded ones.

So, birds are not cold-blooded. In fact, they are the complete opposite. Birds are warm-blooded, or ‘endothermic’, which means they are able to regulate their internal body temperature through metabolic processes, rather than relying on external sources. This is an essential adaptation for birds, as it allows them to maintain a constant internal temperature and remain active in a wide range of environmental conditions.

Birds have a high metabolism, and their internal temperature must remain stable in order for them to be able to fly, forage for food, and carry out other vital activities. If their internal temperature dropped too low, their muscles would become sluggish, their flight would become unsteady, and they would be unable to perform the tasks necessary for survival. On the other hand, if their internal temperature rose too high, they would become overheated, which would also impair their ability to function and eventually lead to death.

So, why do some people still believe that birds are cold-blooded? Well, I suppose it’s because some birds do exhibit what appears to be cold-blooded behaviour, such as basking in the sun to warm up. But, this behaviour is actually a way for birds to regulate their internal temperature and maintain optimal body temperature for activity. When birds bask in the sun, they are increasing the surface area of their bodies exposed to the sun’s rays, which helps them absorb more heat and raise their internal temperature.

It’s also worth noting that not all birds are the same when it comes to regulating their internal temperature. Some birds, such as most passerines and some game-birds, have a relatively constant internal temperature, while others, such as wildfowl and birds of prey, have a more variable internal temperature that changes depending on the time of day or environmental conditions. Regardless, all birds are endothermic, and they regulate their internal temperature in one way or another.

So, there you have it folks. Birds are not cold-blooded. They are warm-blooded creatures that regulate their internal temperature through metabolic processes. I’m tired of having to explain this over and over again, but I suppose it’s my duty as the grumpy old birder to educate the masses. If you still have any questions about avian biology, then I suggest you pick up a book or do the math yourself! Then, the next time you hear someone ask whether birds are cold-blooded, you can now give them a confident and well-informed answer or even just look down your nose and say – warm-blooded… derrrr!

Guest Blogger Fatbirder Separates Fact from Fiction

Can birds get rabies?

As a birdwatcher, you are probably well aware of the many health concerns that can affect birds and, indeed, some that can cross the species gap and transmit to birds from humans and vice versa. One disease that often comes to mind is rabies, a serious and potentially deadly condition that is caused by a virus. But can birds actually get rabies? The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think, and it is important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to this disease and its potential impact on birds.

Rabies is a viral infection that primarily affects mammals, including humans. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, and it attacks the nervous system, causing symptoms such as confusion, aggression, and paralysis. In most cases, rabies is fatal once symptoms begin to appear, and there is no cure – although a preventive vaccine can be given if quickly administered after an animal bite. Because of this, it is considered a serious public health concern and is a reportable disease in many countries. It occurs across most of the Americas, Africa and Asia and some parts of southern Europe but is absent from the British Isles and Australia and New Zealand. In North America only one or two cases a reported annually although it is endemic in, for example, populations of raccoons.

The question of whether birds can get rabies has been a topic of much debate over the years. Some people believe that birds are immune to the virus, while others think that they can be infected but do not show symptoms. The truth is that while birds are not immune to the virus, they are considered to be poor hosts for the disease, and cases of rabies in birds are extremely rare.

There are several reasons why birds are considered to be poor rabies hosts. First, the virus does not replicate well in birds, and the antibodies produced by birds are not as effective at neutralizing the virus as they are in mammals. Additionally, the anatomy of birds is significantly different from that of mammals, and their nervous system is not as susceptible to the effects of the virus.

Despite these factors, there have been some documented cases of birds infected with rabies. For example, in 2006, a pair of screech owls in Florida were found to be infected. In this case, it is believed that the owls contracted the disease from a raccoon, as already said raccoons are known to be a common carrier of rabies. However, even in cases where birds have been infected, the disease does not seem to have a significant impact on the population.

So, in short, birds can get rabies, but it is very rare, and birds are considered to be poor hosts for the disease. If you are a birdwatcher, you should not be too concerned about your feathered friends contracting rabies. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your birds from any potential health threats, including rabies.

If you are concerned about the risk of rabies to your pet birds, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the risk. For example, you can make sure that your birds are protected from exposure to other animals that may be carrying the virus, such as raccoons or bats. You can also take steps to reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding bites and scratches from infected animals, and by seeking prompt medical attention if you are bitten by an animal that you suspect may have rabies.

Guest Blogger Fatbirder

If you love watching birds, you will want to attract goldfinches to your backyard feeders. Whether they are the beautiful yellow and black songbirds that are common in many parts of North America or charming European goldfinches which are found across most of Europe and beyond, with their yellow wing flashes and red faces. Both can add a splash of colour to your garden. Here are some tips on how to attract goldfinches to your feeders. Oddly, this holds for both species which have very similar feeding habits despite being separated by thousands of miles of ocean.

Offer thistle seed: Goldfinches love thistle seed, so offering this type of seed in a specialized thistle feeder is one of the best ways to attract them. These feeders have small ports that dispense the seeds, and their design prevents other birds from stealing the food as the beaks of most finches are too large to winkle out the tiny black seeds.. In Asia and Europe this is known as Nijer, or Nyger seed, although there is no agreement on the spelling!

European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis

Provide a variety of feeders: While thistle feeders are the best way to attract goldfinches, they also enjoy other types of seeds and feeders. Adding a tube feeder with sunflower hearts or a hopper feeder with mixed seeds may not initially attract them to your yard, but once they smell the nyjer they will come in and probably quickly shift their allegiance to sunflower hearts or suet as they offer even better nutritional value. Fat balls, peanut butter (only the sort designed for birds with no additives), meal worms and all will also be eaten, if the goldfinches get a look in when feisty starlings or grackles are about.

Use bright colours: North American Goldfinches are attracted to bright colours, so adding some yellow to your feeders or nearby flowers can catch their attention. You can also add a yellow or bright-coloured feeder to your yard to help attract them. In the UK blue tits and great tits became habituated to the colour red because peanuts for birds were often sold in red plastic mesh tubes you could hand up for them. In North America nectar feeders put out for hummingbirds are most often red and yellow to ape the colours of the flowers they naturally feed upon.

American Goldfinch Spinus tristis

Place feeders in a sheltered area: Like most passerines, goldfinches prefer to feed in areas that are sheltered from the wind and rain. Placing your feeders in a protected area, such as under a tree or on a covered porch, can make them more inviting to the birds. However, a word of warning, you need to strike a happy balance between shelter and safety, birds need to see predators when they are coming. There always needs to be an escape route into as dense bush or the open sky.

Offer water: Goldfinches like most birds that turn up in yards and gardens need water for drinking and bathing, so providing a bird bath or small water feature nearby can make your yard more attractive to them. In cold weather remember to ensure ice is removed and that birds can still find drinking water. In deep water features always provide a branch or other way for birds and other animals to climb out if they fall in.

Be patient: Goldfinches on both sides of the Atlantic can be a bit finicky and may take some time to discover your feeders. It may take weeks before you start seeing them at your feeders, so be patient and keep your feeders filled. Eventually, they will smell the nyger and once they find it they will keep coming back. I haven’t had nyjer in my tiny yard for years and years, but the goldfinches are still regular because they know I put out all sorts of food, especially in the winter months.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of attracting goldfinches to your backyard feeders. Watching these beautiful birds can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for birdwatchers of all ages. All of us bird lovers want to make sure the next generation grows to love birds and the more colourful they are the more noticeable to kids.

Guest Blogger Grumpy Old Birder 

Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world, but they are natural born killers and their impact on wild bird populations cannot be denied; it has been a subject of debate for many years. While cats are beloved by their owners, they are also natural predators that have a significant impact on the environment. In this article, we will explore the impact of cats on wild bird populations. It is estimated that cats in the United States alone kill between 1.3 and 4 billion birds each year. This number is staggering and has significant implications for the environment. It is estimated that cats have the biggest impact on bird populations, more even than disease or natural predation.

Cats are far from the innocent pets their owners believe… they have been responsible for extinctions. In fact, one cat was responsible for an extinction all by itself. St Stephen’s Island off mainland New Zealand was home to several endemic species. The St Stephen’s Island Wren was only known to science because the lighthouse keeper’s cat brought home one it had killed. Having no natural predators the wren had lost the ability to fly and lived, nested and fed on the ground. Over the next few years this one cat killed every single one of the hapless birds, so they are now gone forever!

What birds do cats kill most often?

The impact of cats on wild bird populations is particularly acute for certain species. For example, ground-nesting birds in North America like quail, sparrows, and plovers are particularly vulnerable to predation by cats. In the UK ground nesters are vulnerable too, but also many species that feed on the ground such as thrushes. Many other species are at risk including waterfowl, and shorebirds – it’s not just our common garden visitors that suffer.

Cats impact bird populations in several ways. The most obvious way is through predation. When cats hunt birds, they not only kill the individual bird but obviously, by doing so, reduce the overall population. Cats are effective hunters, and where they roam free they are responsible for the deaths of millions of birds each year.

Moreover, cats scare birds away from feeding and their other natural habits. The presence of a cat will cause alarm even when they fail to capture prey.

In addition to their impact on bird populations, cats can also have a significant impact on other wildlife. For example, cats can prey on small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. This can have a significant impact on the overall ecology of an area. Whether it is the frogs and newts in your garden pond, or the local shrew population, they are impacted by domestic cats.

Keep Cats Indoors

Most cat owners mistakenly believe their moggies to be an exception to the predator rules. As they never see what has been killed by their pet they tell everyone that their cat never kills. Studies have shown that cat’s rarely bring home what they kill, and those that do present their owners with their ‘prizes’ only turn up with a tiny percentage of their kills.

There are several ways that we can mitigate the impact of cats on wild bird populations. The most effective of ways is to keep cats indoors. This not only protects birds but also keeps cats safe from other dangers like disease, road traffic and predators. The practice of letting cats roam free all night is unique to them, no other pet is treated this way. Indoor cats are safe and content and cannot kill birds.

Another way to reduce the impact of cats on bird populations is through the use of cat collars that contain bells. Bells can alert birds to the presence of cats, giving them a chance to escape. However, it is important to note that bells are not foolproof and may not work for all birds.

In some countries, particularly the USA there are very large populations of feral cats. Roaming and free to breed they displace other predators and upset the natural order in the environment. Some communities have implemented trap-neuter-return programs. These programs capture feral cats, sterilize them, and then release them back into the wild. This can help to reduce the overall population of cats in an area in the long-term, which may in turn reduce their impact on bird populations. However, it would be far more effective not to return them to the wild. This appeasement for cat lovers is, of course, a direct affront to those who love the creatures that cats kill. In environmental terms it cannot be justified. No other pets are given immunity – dogs are impounded for example, unless under the direct control of their owners.

In conclusion, while cats are beloved pets, they also have a devastating impact on wild bird populations. While it is not possible to completely eliminate the impact of cats on birds, there are steps that can and should be taken to mitigate their impact. By keeping cats indoors, using collars with bells, and culling feral populations, we can help to protect wild bird populations while still enjoying the companionship of our feline friends.

As a lover of the natural world I assert the rights of wild animals in their natural habitat as far more just than giving rights to animals that are not native and are kept in far larger numbers that any naturally occurring population. Cat owners must start taking responsibility for the damage caused by the practice of allowing their pets to roam free especially at night.