Attracting more birds - goldfinches and hummingbirds

This morning, my oldest son alerted us to the presence of a yellow bird in the tree, near one of the feeders. I immediately recognized it as the American Goldfinch. That's the first one I've ever seen in the neighborhood, let alone in our tree. However, goldfinches tend to be harder to spot as they like to hide in tree with yellowish leaves that make them blend right in. Today, it was in our cherry blossom tree where it wasn't well camouflaged. It took a turn in one of the feeders before it flew off. In our backyard, we have added a hummingbird feeder. Hummingbirds like to drink nectar, so they require a different feeder than the seed-eating birds. We haven't seen any show up this week, but we'll have to see how it goes this summer.

Come one, come all to the birdfeeder

The birdfeeder that we put out last year is certainly attracting the birds. Last year, it was almost exclusively used by the house sparrows. This year, we have seen it used by a variety of species -- red-winged blackbirds, brown-headed cowbirds, house finches, and common grackles. We also have about a dozen mourning doves who will eat the birdseed that is scattered underneath or out on the lawn, as well as an occasional blue jay. We also have some robins, but they tend to stay away from the crowd at the feeder.

With spring here, we are starting to see some more species return to the area. I have noticed some northern mockingbirds around our house, and I've seen a killdeer by the main road.

Don't be disappointed if you put out a feeder and no birds show up. If you keep putting food in it, eventually birds will find it. Don't be afraid to try some different seed mixes until you find the one they like the best.