Birds in Your Back Yard at Fairwinds

Submitted by Bob Harris, Wildlife Biologist

                                                                   New arrivals to Fairwinds are some times surprised at the number of residents who have become interested in the local bird life. Their curiosity aroused, they often purchase a bird feeder, obtain pleasurable results in observing their bird visitors and become "bird watchers."

As a biologist, I was already interested in birds when I moved here to a town home overlooking #7 fairway seven years ago. I established a feeding program at that time, have continued it and constantly enjoy the results.

I usually start feeding in September to catch the early fall migrants and by June or earlier I discontinue as, by then, spring migrants will have passed through. Because of the readily available natural food I don't see a need for feeding in the summer months, with the exception of feeding the Humming Birds, which put on such interesting and colourful displays.

If one made comparisons of the various species at feeders throughout Fairwinds, certain differences would be obvious. Some birds found on the rocky ridges would be different from those seen adjoining the open fairways, with grass and lakes. Some feeders along the coast may attract different species as well. Also, of course, different food attracts different species. For example, black thistle seed attracts the gold finch; suet with seed attracts chickadees, starlings and woodpeckers.

While I have not kept meticulous records of species at my feeder, I can account for approximately 25 species. I have compiled my list, separated as to abundance; you may wish to compare it to your own.

Common Species

Spotted towhee, dark-eyed junco, house finch, chestnut-sided chickadee, pine siskin, song sparrow, rufous hummingbird, starlings

Less Common

Red-breasted nuthatch, white and golden-crowned sparrows, downy woodpecker, northern flicker, fox sparrow

Occasional

Cowbird, red-winged blackbird, California quail, varied thrush, goldfinch, Steller’s jay, fox sparrow, Harris' sparrow (not confirmed)

Unusual

Red crossbills were noted once at my feeder. Some people note them and evening grosbeaks but I haven’t recorded the latter.

The Cooper's hawk is seen periodically; not attracted to the food in the feeder but to those other birds feeding there. Warblers and other spring migrants are noted but not usually found at my feeder.

I would be interested in sharing your bird observations. Feel free to phone me at 468­-1920 and we can compare notes.

Reference: Birds of British Columbia, Volumes 1 -4, 1990-2001

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