With the much cooler weather we've been experiencing, there's been the usual winter increase in birds here. I see the Juncos and Wrens hopping through the garden eating seeds from Black-Eyed Susans, Coneflowers and other plants I haven't cut back yet. I see the Pileated Woodpecker and Crows (and squirrels) in the apple trees munching on the apples too high for us to reach. I see them splashing in the birdbaths. There are hummingbirds fighting over the feeders now that most of the fuchsias are done. I've seen large flocks in the tall Cedars at the church down the street. And my favorite is seeing them enjoy the waterfall in our pond. They are there mostly in the early day, right when the sun is low and it makes picture taking difficult, but yesterday morning I just had to try and capture some of the large flock of Pine Siskins that were visiting. We used to see lots of these birds in the summer, but I've noticed over the last 3 years or so that they only visit in winter now.
These are just a small group of the many were actually around the pond and in the apple tree.
The water is so cold it hurts my hand to have it in for more than a minute or two, and yet I find them splashing and bathing in the waterfall.
Looking for insects in the rocks.
A few last sips, and then they were gone.
I'm not sure what it is about birds, but I am fascinated by them. My husband has pointed out lately that there are birds decorating every room, I took that as a hint that they might not be his first choice of home decor.
Are you seeing more or less birds this time of year?
All words and photos in this post are property of
A Gardener in Progress.
I loved this post and seeing your delightful little visitors. I, too, adore birds and get such a thrill seeing any and all In our garden. I never grow weary of enjoying their songs and antics. Being summer here, we have many breeding pairs in and around the garden. We feed them year round and they know where to come. Your pond is still looking ever so lovely this late in the year!
ReplyDeleteThe birds really like open water and they sure are enjoying your pond. I have a heater to keep water open as we get too cold for my pond to stay open. Great shots.
ReplyDeleteThe Golden Finches are sure enjoying your pond. They love the running water and safe area behind your fences. They look so cute in the waterfall.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful week!
Hi Catherine,
ReplyDeleteI've seen a lot of finches like yours and the chickadee's and junco's are down from the mountain forests to visit. We see the black capped and the chestnut back varieties. I thought I saw a young grosbeak, but the bugger flew off before I could identify him. Admittedly the Chickadee's are my favorite, so cute and fluffy!!
The pond is looking so nice Catherine and the birds ad to the landscape. Hope you are doing good. I've been MIA for a while. I hope to get a post up this week.
ReplyDeleteThose birds are enjoying your garden and pond so much! We will be moving there in the spring and I can't wait to see some different birds from what we have here in the desert.
ReplyDeleteCatherine,
ReplyDeleteWhat a delight to have Pine Siskins in the water feature! Hard to believe the water is that cold already, here it is still warmer that the air when it gets cold.
I had to come see your pond as I've finally decided to build one of my own! Never thought I would. I like your waterfall very much and think mine will be similar. I need to email you off line about some advice not found in books!
ReplyDeleteForgot about all the birds-that is quite a bunch and so delightful. Happy Holidays to you and yours!
ReplyDeleteYour pond area is looking fabulous. No wonder it's become a gathering place for so many lovely little birds. They're having a ball!
ReplyDeleteI'm lucky enough to be able to see lots of birds almost every day in this spot. I never take that for granted!
ha ha ~ don't feel bad ~ I have a lot of bird decor too!! I think it goes along with gardening??? I even decorate my Christmas trees with them. Your pond is so inviting, I can see why the birds are attracted too (besides needing a drink.)
ReplyDeleteAs in your garden, we find that the birds adore the waterfall. The Cardinals are especially fond of hanging out there in the winter.
ReplyDeleteThe birds have been going crazy here as well with no snow cover...lots to eat since I really did not cut anything back...the waterfall is off but the rain gardens are full from all the rain run off so they have plenty of moisture...its all about to change by the end of the week though...
ReplyDeleteMaybe you stole all of our birds because most of them left the feeders. I thought it was the cold, but apparently not if you have so many. The sunlight makes everything look so nice and pleasant. Almost as if it weren't winter.
ReplyDeleteHello Rose,
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous pictures of the birds bading. A litte bit cold I think!! Lovely to see your pond. Not only in summer but also in winter there is a lot to see.
Have a nice evening
Marijke
Catherine, more! and I cannot believe the number of Robins that are coming around and flying onto the beech right next to my studio window. They are all congregating around the fountain and various birdbaths we have around. Brave little creatures. Stay warm... we have lots of frost.
ReplyDeletePS: love the little fairy leaning forward.
How sweet are those siskins in the waterfall! Funny you should mention bird decor. Just last week, I happened to notice my bathroom decor-- 4 of the wall hangings have birds. Birds make me happy :o)
ReplyDeleteWe have lots of birds here....was talking to one of the guys in my MG group who leads bird walks, I was telling him about a bird singing a sweet song last evening when I took the dogs for a walk. I love watching and listening to the birds. Your birds love that water feature.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous gathering at your pond and gosh your garden is looking great for this time of year! Hope you are well and enjoying this beautiful crisp, sunshine filled Fall...Cheers Julia
ReplyDelete