Birds

Bushtits

Every now and then we get some beautiful birds in our yard. My sister was an avid bird feeder and watcher and we've continued her legacy by keeping our bird feeders well stocked.

Western Tanager

We get hummingbirds, bushtits, nuthatches, chickadees, flickers, finches, jays, and many others. One spring we even got tanagers and I've seen a peregrine falcon sitting on our back fence more than once!

Cedar Waxwing

Just last week as I was working from home I saw two cedar waxwings land on the lilac bush. I googled what things they eat as I wanted to attract more. That's when I stumbled on this great website.

You can filter by region, food preference, feeder type, or just click on a bird and see what they like to eat.

If you don't already have any, pick up a few bird feeders and start enjoying nature's parade!

I recommend these feeders:

 A simple basic feeder works great for hummingbirds. Mix 1/2 cup sugar to 2 cups water for food. Hang close to a window so you can see the birds and feed year round in the Pacific Northwest.












 These are great for bushtits and flickers. We've found these suet cakes with hot pepperskeep the squirrels from eating them, especially when there's plenty of other food available, and the birds still love them.  In really hot weather (over 95 degrees), the cakes may melt.











Keep in mind that feeding birds begins an unending battle with squirrels in your feeders. We've found that this feeder helps keep squirrels from eating your birdseed.  However, in the dead of winter when there's little food for squirrels they will try anything to get to your feeders.

Another comprehensive resource is this article from Happy DIY Home.