For a better world, avoid using chemicals in your yard

For a better world, avoid using chemicals in your yard

In my column last week, I mentioned how the lesser goldfinches are decimating the leaves on my sunflower plants. I even included a picture of the leaves that were stripped bare, giving the appearance of insect damage. I fear that sometimes unsuspecting individuals...
Sights and sounds of nature in my yard

Sights and sounds of nature in my yard

Early each morning, I sit outside in my bird observation area and take in the sights and sounds of nature. While I am not experiencing a lot of bird activity at my feeders, my yard is certainly hopping with nature — literally. A recent arrival is a large rabbit who is...
Where are all of the birds?

Where are all of the birds?

Over the past few months — and even more so over the past few weeks — I have been asked the question, “Where are all of the birds?”  Numerous customers have had this concern, which also extends to hummingbird activity. In fact, many people have said they aren’t seeing...
Storm highlights birding adventures in Virginia

Storm highlights birding adventures in Virginia

Gayla and I have been in Virginia this past week visiting our son, Jeremy, and his family. We’ve enjoyed being “GG” and “Grampy” to two of our beautiful granddaughters. While in Virginia, I spent a lot of time birding at the following locations — Runnymede Park in...
Perfect morning for a bird walk

Perfect morning for a bird walk

This past Friday I led a Jay’s Bird Barn sponsored bird walk to Watson Woods and Watson Lake. It was a perfect morning—it wasn’t too windy, and the sun was shining! Our group of ten birders started our day at the Peavine Trailhead parking lot off of Sundog Ranch Road,...
Watson Woods – An important area for migrating birds

Watson Woods – An important area for migrating birds

Team Jay’s Bird Barn enjoyed a delightful bird watching experience earlier this week as we spent time visiting a variety of habitats in an effort to boost our total species count as part of the Prescott Audubon Society Birdathon fundraiser.     The day started out...