BIRDING

FEEDING BIRDS AT FEEDERS: With the increased awareness of contagious diseases passed from bird to bird, many are questioning the practice of feeding birds at feeders. One wonders, should I feed or not feed the birds? Cornell Lab says that birds weakened by hunger are more likely to fall victim to these diseases than are well fed birds. Much of the problem is caused by the humans feeding the birds than the practice of feeding them. Some have too many feeders, causing numerous birds to congregate in one place, thus increasing the opportunity for contagion. Others do not clean feeders and birdbaths often enough or with appropriate cleaning agents to destroy pathogens. For information on proper feeding techniques and cleaning, go to www.audubon.org, click on Audubon at Home, then Bird Feeding Basics, and Feeder Maintenance.

Refer to the FIELD TRIPS page for information on the upcoming guided bird walks. Bring binoculars, but, if you don't have a good pair, the trip leaders often bring sighting scopes. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water and lunch or snacks.

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