Sunday, February 8, 2009

Ruby-crowned Kinglets

Only one Ruby-crowned Kinglet is seen at the suet feeder at a time. This weekend I discovered at least four in the vicinity of the feeder at different times. Three male birds went into mist nets and later an unbanded bird was observed feeding on the suet.

Project Feederwatch Statistics

Project Feederwatch data provides a snapshot of which species are more prevalent at feeders from year to year. This winter season the percentage of feeders in North Carolina hosting Pine Siskins is much higher than last year; conversely Dark-eyed Juncos are at fewer feeders this year than last year. Both of these statistics match my experience. I’ve not seen a Junco in over a month. Pine Siskins are an irruptive species so the difference from year to year is no surprise. I’ve not heard a reason for the reduced distribution of Juncos this year though.