Birds of Winter: From the Feeder

Eastern Bluebird (male)

The area around the Christmas tree feeder has become a very active gathering spot for my backyard birds; so, I decided to place another small tray feeder in the vicinity to accomodate everyone. Like I needed another bird feeder…

At the moment, I am enjoying photographing birds in that part of my backyard, as opposed to the main feeding station. The light is decent there for most of the day, and as that section of the deck extends out into the woods behind my home, there are plenty of spots for the birds to perch before and after visiting the feeders.

I placed the new tray feeder outside early this afternoon, and it’s been busy ever since. That’s where most of these photographs were taken; although, you will also find some photos of the tree feeder below. Note, too, that the tree feeder is now secured to the railing of the deck.

This is the reason why…

I hope you enjoy these photographs.

Purple Finch (male)
House Finch (male). For beginning birders, House Finches and Purple Finches can be tricky IDs to make. Note how similar these birds are (including the females of both species below); although, there are marked differences in their appearance. Purple Finches are winter residents in North Carolina, while House Finches are with us year-round.
Purple Finch (female)
House Finch (female)
Pine Warbler (female)
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Mourning Dove
Carolina Chickadee. Note that this individual appears to be missing some toes. This particular bird has been visiting my backyard for at least the past two years, and the only thing I’ve seen it do differently from other chickadees is hang upside down (on a feeder or from a branch) using one foot instead of two.
Eastern Bluebird (male)
Left to right: Purple Finch (male), Purple Finch (female), Chipping Sparrow
A Yellow-rumped Warbler protecting the tree feeder from an approaching Eastern Bluebird
House Finch (male)
Hermit Thrush
Purple Finch (female)
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Purple Finch (male)
Purple Finch (male) and a Chipping Sparrow
Mourning Dove
House Finch (male) with a Yellow-rumped Warbler approaching in the background

2 responses to “Birds of Winter: From the Feeder”

  1. Lisa or Li Avatar
    Lisa or Li

    Winning photos, Laura. I wonder how the chickadee lost toes? Seems to do ok regardless. My faves here are the dove ones and the bluebird ones.

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    1. theusedlife Avatar
      theusedlife

      Thanks, Lisa! Not sure what happened to the chickadee. I’ve often wondered if it wasn’t born that way…but who knows. Since I’ve known it, it’s never appeared injured or to be struggling in any way. The doves and bluebirds are actually my favorites here, too. I’m happy you enjoyed these. Happy New Year!

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