Birds in My Backyard – Michigan

As you know, I’ve been complaining about the horrid winged demons this year in the yard. I can’t barely water the plants without getting eaten alive by mosquitoes. Last night, I wanted to sit down and get some pictures of the orioles. I purchased Repel natural mosquito repellent and as long as you are wearing long pants and long sleeves, I think it does help. I was able to sit outside for maybe half an hour.

The hummingbirds have been stopping by the feeder, but not sticking around. I’m pretty sure I made the right proportion of sugar to water in the nectar, but this morning I made some more and will fill it tonight to see if that makes a difference. I did capture one, though he wasn’t looking at the camera.

Our orioles are really, really skittish. They won’t light on the feeder if I’m sitting on the front porch, no matter how still I am. I caught this one as I was standing out by my car. Both the male and female are spending a fair amount of time in our yard this year. Bob was telling me over the weekend that climate change and deforestation is causing a decrease in the number of Baltimore orioles.

My bird routine starts in the morning by filling the jelly feeder. If the water in the birdbath is very low or dirty, I dump it and fill it. In the evening, I refill the jelly feeder if it needs it, and dump the birdbath water. I also refill the ant moats in the jelly feeder and the hummingbird feeder. I dump and clean the hummingbird feeder every three days or so, more if it’s especially hot. I try to keep thistle seed in the yellow feeder for the finches and chickadees, too. This little male house finch is appreciative.

Last night there was a lot of tornado activity in the lower midwest. We’re supposed to be in for some storms this afternoon through Wednesday. Thursday is supposed to be cooler and rainy. Tomorrow Mom and I are going to the greenhouses, and Thursday we’re planning on planting the cemeteries in Lansing. I’m hoping we’ll be able to dodge the raindrops, at least.

If you’re unfamiliar with “put a bird on it,” here it is: