Ruby-Crowned Kinglet: Tiny Bird, Big Presence

The Ruby-crowned Kinglet, a tiny songbird, is a familiar sight across North America. It often enlivens woodlands and gardens. This bird exhibits a remarkable resilience, thriving from the dense forests of Canada to the warmer climates of the United States. The Kinglet is known for its vibrant personality and its striking, though often concealed, red crest. The bird’s presence reminds us of the rich biodiversity found in our own backyards and wilderness areas.

Ever stopped to consider the sheer number of birds flitting about North America? It’s mind-boggling! From the East Coast to the West, and everywhere in between, there’s a dazzling array of small bird species making our world a little brighter. We’re talking about a whole universe of feathered friends, many smaller than your hand, each with its own unique story. Think of them as the ‘sparkling gems’ of our ecosystems, often overlooked but unbelievably precious!

But these tiny creatures aren’t just pretty faces. They’re actually ecological superheroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes. Pollination? They’re on it, zipping from flower to flower like miniature hummingbirds. Insect control? Forget pesticides, these birds are natural pest managers, keeping our gardens and forests healthy. They are truly doing more for nature than most of realize.

Now, I bet you can picture a few of these little dynamos already. Maybe you’ve spotted a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, a tiny ball of energy with a surprisingly loud voice? Or perhaps the cheerful yellow flash of an American Goldfinch has caught your eye? And who can resist the bubbly song of a Carolina Wren, a pint-sized powerhouse with a giant personality? These are just a few of the stars in our small bird spectacular.

The best part? Getting to know these birds is an absolute joy. Learning to identify them – by sight, by sound, by behavior – is like unlocking a secret code to the natural world. So, get ready to dive into the fascinating world of small American birds. Trust me; you will see the birds you never saw before and the deeper you look, the more you’ll want to learn!

Habitat Havens: Where Small Birds Thrive

Ever wonder where our tiny, feathered friends call home? Well, it’s not just about any old tree or patch of grass. Small American birds are surprisingly picky about their real estate! They need specific environments that cater to their unique needs. Let’s take a whimsical tour of the diverse habitats that keep these little guys chirping!

Forests: A Land of Wood and Wonder

Ah, the forest! A classic, right? But did you know that different types of forests offer different homes?

• Deciduous Forests: These leafy paradises, where trees lose their leaves each fall, are perfect for birds like the White-breasted Nuthatch. They scurry up and down tree trunks, searching for tasty insects!

• Coniferous Forests: Think towering pines and firs! These evergreen forests are a haven for birds like the Ruby-crowned Kinglet. These tiny dynamos flit through the dense needles, often singing their hearts out.

• Mixed Forests: Why choose when you can have both? These forests offer a blend of deciduous and coniferous trees, providing a wide range of niches for birds like the Brown Creeper, spiraling up the trunks of trees in search of insects.

Grasslands: Open Skies and Hidden Nests

Vast, open grasslands might seem empty, but look closer! These areas are full of life, especially for birds adapted to wide-open spaces. Sparrows and meadowlarks call these their home!

• Camouflage is key here! Many grassland birds have plumage that blends perfectly with the surrounding vegetation.
• Ground Nesting: Forget fancy treehouses! Many grassland birds build their nests right on the ground, hidden among the grasses.

Deserts: Surviving the Sizzle

Deserts might seem like the last place you’d find birds, but some hardy species have adapted to the arid conditions. The Verdin is a prime example!

• Water Conservation is their superpower! These birds have evolved clever ways to conserve water, allowing them to thrive in this harsh environment.

Wetlands: A Bug Buffet

Marshes, swamps, and other wetlands are teeming with life! These soggy habitats are crucial for many small bird species. Wrens and some sparrows love these habitats!

• An abundance of insects = a feast for insect-loving birds!

Riparian Zones: Riverbank Residences

Areas along rivers and streams, known as riparian zones, are like bird highways! They provide vital corridors for movement and are packed with resources. Warblers and vireos can usually be found around these habitats.

• Vegetation Cover is super important here. It provides shelter from predators and the elements.

Suburban Gardens and Urban Areas: Making the Most of the City

Even in the concrete jungle, some birds find a way to thrive! House Finches and Chipping Sparrows are well-adapted to urban life.

• Bird-Friendly Gardens: You can help these birds by creating a welcoming space in your backyard.
  • Plant native plants!
  • Provide a water source!
  • Minimize pesticide use!

So, next time you’re out and about, take a closer look at the surrounding habitats. You might be surprised at the variety of small birds that call them home! And remember, by understanding their needs, we can help ensure that these tiny wonders continue to thrive.

The Daily Menu: Feeding Habits of Small Birds

Ever wonder what keeps those tiny bundles of feathers zipping around your backyard? Well, pull up a chair (or maybe grab your binoculars!), because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of small bird cuisine! These little guys and gals have some seriously diverse palates, and their feeding habits are crucial, not just for their survival, but for the health of the entire ecosystem. It’s like a tiny, feathery food web out there!

Insects: The Protein Powerhouse

Think of insects as the all-you-can-eat buffet for many small birds, especially during the hustle and bustle of breeding season. Why? Because baby birds need protein to grow big and strong, ready for those long flights (or just fluttering around the yard!). Warblers and flycatchers are masters of the insect hunt. You might see warblers flitting through the leaves, gleaning insects right off the branches. Flycatchers? They’re the acrobats of the bird world, launching themselves from perches to snatch insects right out of the air. Talk about dinner and a show! Think of them as the pest control of your backyard, keeping those pesky bugs in check.

Seeds: The Staple Food

When the weather turns chilly and insects become scarce, seeds become the go-to grub for many small birds. Finches and sparrows are the seed-eating champions. You’ll often see them hopping around under your bird feeder, gobbling up fallen seeds. And speaking of bird feeders, offering a variety of seeds can attract a wider range of feathered friends. Goldfinches adore thistle seed, while juncos prefer white millet. It’s like catering to different tastes at a bird buffet! Remember, a consistent supply of seeds can make a huge difference for these birds, especially during the lean winter months.

Berries: The Sweet Treat

Ah, berries! The dessert of the bird world! These juicy little morsels are packed with energy, making them a crucial food source, especially during migration and winter when birds need to fuel up for long journeys or survive the cold. Waxwings and thrushes are particularly fond of berries. Planting native berry-producing plants in your yard is like rolling out the red carpet for these birds. Think serviceberries, elderberries, and dogwoods. Not only do they provide food, but they also add a splash of color to your landscape.

Suet: The Energy Bar

When winter really bites, birds need a high-energy boost to stay warm and active. That’s where suet comes in! Suet is basically rendered animal fat, and it’s like a super-powered energy bar for birds. Woodpeckers and nuthatches are particularly drawn to suet feeders. You can buy pre-made suet cakes or even make your own (there are tons of recipes online!). Just be sure to use high-quality suet and avoid anything with artificial flavors or colors. Offer your bird neighbors this treat and they’ll happily pay you back by eating insects off nearby trees.

Decoding Bird Behavior: Migration, Nesting, and More

Ever wonder what those little feathered dynamos are really up to? Beyond their adorable chirps and flitting flights, small American birds lead seriously complex lives packed with fascinating behaviors. Let’s dive in and uncover some of their secrets!

The Great Escape: Understanding Bird Migration

Why do birds pack their tiny bags and embark on epic journeys twice a year? It’s all about survival! Migration is usually driven by the search for food and better breeding conditions. Think of it as their version of escaping the winter blues for a sunny vacation (though a tad more dangerous).

• Why Migrate? Birds migrate to find areas with more abundant food sources and suitable nesting grounds. The routes they travel are often ancient, passed down through generations!
• Who’s on the Move? Many familiar faces are migrants, including those colorful warblers flashing through the trees in spring and fall, and the amazing swallows, making the journey to feast on insects in warmer weather.
• The Perils of the Journey: Migration is no walk in the park (or fly in the sky, rather!). Birds face exhaustion, predators, and habitat loss along the way. That’s why stopover habitats are so vital – they provide crucial rest and refueling spots. Conserving these areas is essential for helping migrating birds survive.

Home Sweet Home: Nesting 101

Building a nest is like bird real estate 101. It’s where the magic happens—eggs are laid, and baby birds are raised.

• Nest Variety: From the neatly woven cup nests of robins perched in tree branches to the cleverly hidden cavity nests of wrens tucked into tree hollows, there’s a nest style for every bird!
• Building Materials: Birds are resourceful architects, using everything from twigs and leaves to mud and spiderwebs to construct their homes.
• Nesting Behavior: Nest building is more than just construction; it is where they carefully select locations, and they defend it against all odds.

The Power of Song: Communication and More

That sweet birdsong isn’t just for our enjoyment – it’s a crucial form of communication for birds.

• Why Sing? Birds sing to attract mates, defend their territory, and communicate with each other.
• Song Masters: Some birds, like mockingbirds, are true vocal virtuosos, mimicking the songs of other birds and even human-made sounds! Others, like song sparrows, have a repertoire of songs that they use to convey different messages.
• Learning to Listen: Learning to identify birds by their songs is a fantastic way to connect with nature and discover the hidden world around you.

Safety in Numbers: The Benefits of Flocking

Have you ever seen a huge group of birds swirling and flying together? That’s flocking in action!

• Why Flock? Flocking provides protection from predators – there are more eyes to spot danger, and the sheer number of birds can confuse attackers. It also improves foraging efficiency, as birds can share information about food sources.
• Flock Stars: Chickadees and bushtits are often seen in flocks, traveling together through forests and gardens in search of food.
• How Flocking Works: Flocking dynamics are complex, with birds constantly adjusting their position to maintain cohesion and avoid collisions.

Territory and Romance: Courtship Displays

Birds go to great lengths to defend their territory and attract a mate, often engaging in elaborate courtship displays.

• Territoriality: Birds defend territories to secure access to food, nesting sites, and mates.
• Courtship Rituals: From the dazzling aerial displays of hummingbirds to the elaborate songs and dances of warblers, courtship displays are often visually stunning and highly ritualized.

So, next time you see a small bird, remember that there’s a whole world of fascinating behavior hidden beneath those feathers. By understanding these behaviors, we can better appreciate and protect these amazing creatures!

From Tiny Shells to Sky Dancers: Unveiling the Secrets of a Small Bird’s Life Cycle

Ever wondered how those adorable little birds flitting around your backyard go from basically nothing to fully-fledged aviators? Well, buckle up, bird nerds (and bird-curious folks!), because we’re about to dive deep into the amazing life cycle of a small American bird! It’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and lots of bugs.

The Incredible Egg Stage

It all starts with an egg, of course! These delicate orbs are more than just potential omelets; they’re tiny fortresses of life. The momma bird carefully incubates them, keeping them at just the right temperature for development. Think of it like a feathered personal chef constantly adjusting the oven settings. But it’s not all cozy warmth and lullabies! The egg stage is a risky one.

Predation and Weather: The Egg’s Arch-Enemies

Imagine being a delicious, protein-packed snack sitting out in the open. That’s basically what an egg is! Predators, like snakes, squirrels, and even other birds, are constantly on the lookout for an easy meal. And then there’s Mother Nature. A sudden cold snap, a torrential downpour, or even too much sun can spell disaster for developing embryos. Talk about pressure!

Nestling Nirvana (and Needs)

Once that little bird pecks its way out of the egg, it enters the nestling stage. Picture a fluffy, wide-mouthed ball of insatiable hunger. That’s a nestling! They’re entirely dependent on their parents for warmth, protection, and, most importantly, food.

Round-the-Clock Room Service: The Life of a Bird Parent

Bird parents work hard, folks. They’re constantly flying back and forth, stuffing their babies with insects, seeds, and whatever else they can find. It’s like running a 24/7 diner, except the customers never say “thank you” (and poop in the dining room).

Threats to Nestlings: It’s a Jungle in There!

Even in the relative safety of the nest, nestlings face plenty of perils. Predators can still raid the nest, and if the parents can’t find enough food, the little ones can starve. Disease and parasites can also take their toll. It’s a tough life being a baby bird!

Fledgling Freedom (Sort Of)

The fledgling stage is like bird adolescence. The young bird is ready to leave the nest (sort of), but it’s still not quite independent. They’re awkward, clumsy, and still rely on their parents for food and guidance. It’s basically the bird equivalent of moving back in with your parents after college.

Learning to Fly (and Flail): A Fledgling’s First Steps

Watching a fledgling learn to fly is both hilarious and heartwarming. They flap their wings with gusto, but often end up crash-landing in bushes or on the ground. It takes practice, but eventually, they get the hang of it. They also start learning how to forage for food, mimicking their parents’ techniques.

Juvenile Jamboree: Figuring Things Out

Once a bird can survive on its own, it enters the juvenile stage. This is a time of learning, growth, and figuring out how to be a bird. They’re still not quite as skilled as adults, but they’re getting there.

Molting and Plumage Changes: Dressing for Success

Juvenile birds often have duller plumage than adults. As they mature, they’ll go through a series of molts, shedding their old feathers and growing in new, brighter ones. It’s like a wardrobe upgrade before hitting the bird bar scene.

Adulting: The Reproductive Rockstar

Finally, the bird reaches adulthood. They’re now ready to reproduce and continue the cycle of life. They’ve mastered the art of flying, foraging, and avoiding predators. They’re basically bird ninjas.

Lifespan and Longevity: How Long Do Birds Live?

The lifespan of a small bird varies depending on the species and environmental factors. Some may only live a few years, while others can live for a decade or more. Factors like food availability, predator pressure, and disease can all affect their longevity.

So, there you have it! The incredible journey of a small American bird, from egg to adult. Next time you see one flitting around, take a moment to appreciate all the challenges it’s overcome to get there. It’s a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature!

Trouble in Paradise: Threats to Small American Birds

It’s not all sunshine and seed-filled feeders for our tiny, feathered friends. Sadly, life for small American birds is getting tougher, and it’s mostly our fault. Let’s dive into some of the biggest problems they’re facing, so we can figure out how to help!

Habitat Loss: No Place Like Home

Imagine someone bulldozing your house and turning it into a parking lot! That’s essentially what’s happening to birds through habitat loss. Deforestation (say goodbye to those cozy tree homes!), urbanization (hello, concrete jungle!), and agriculture (expanding fields mean fewer wild spaces) are squeezing birds out of their natural environments.

Think about wetlands, for instance—these soggy paradises are being drained and filled, leaving wrens and swamp sparrows homeless. And grasslands, once sprawling with wildflowers and buzzing with insects, are vanishing under the plow, leaving meadowlarks with nowhere to raise their families. It’s a sad state of affairs, but understanding the problem is the first step to fixing it.

Climate Change: Weathering the Storm (Literally!)

Climate change is throwing a wrench into everything, and birds are definitely feeling the heat (sometimes literally!). It’s messing with their migration patterns – birds are arriving at breeding grounds too early or too late, missing out on peak food availability. Rising temperatures and altered rainfall are also changing where birds can live, forcing them to move or face the consequences. Increased frequency of extreme weather events such as stronger storms, heat waves, and droughts can devastate bird populations, particularly during nesting season.

Pesticide Use: A Poisonous Buffet

We all want healthy crops, but the way we’re achieving it can be devastating for birds. Pesticides don’t just kill bugs; they can also poison birds directly or wipe out their food supply. Think about it: Warblers and flycatchers need insects! Neonicotinoids, a common type of pesticide, are particularly nasty – they can mess with a bird’s nervous system and even lead to death. It’s like offering them a seemingly tasty buffet that’s actually full of poison!

Cat Predation: The Feline Factor

Okay, cat lovers, hear us out! We adore our feline friends, but let’s face it: they’re natural-born hunters. And unfortunately, birds are often on the menu, especially in suburban and urban areas. A well-fed cat will still hunt and kill birds. Domestic cats contribute significantly to the decline of bird populations. There are things we can do, though. Keeping cats indoors is the single best way to protect birds. If your cat ventures outside, consider a brightly colored collar with a bell to give birds a fighting chance.

Window Collisions: Invisible Barriers

Ever walked into a glass door? Birds do it all the time, but with far more serious consequences. Window collisions are a major cause of bird deaths, especially during migration. Birds don’t see glass the way we do; they perceive reflections of trees and sky as open space. Applying decals, stickers, or screens to windows can break up the reflections and make the glass visible to birds. It’s a simple fix that can save countless lives.

Guardians of the Sky: Conservation Efforts in Action

It’s not all doom and gloom for our feathered friends! All over America, dedicated folks are stepping up to protect these tiny dynamos. It’s like a superhero league, but instead of capes, they wield shovels, binoculars, and a whole lot of passion. So, who are these capeless crusaders, and what kind of magical things are they doing? Let’s dive in!

Bird Conservation Organizations: The Big Leagues

Think of organizations like the Audubon Society, American Bird Conservancy, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology as the Justice League of the bird world. They’re the big guns, tackling conservation on a grand scale.

• They conduct cutting-edge research to understand bird populations and the challenges they face.
• They lobby for policies that protect birds and their habitats (because sometimes, you need to fight for what’s right!).
• They educate the public, inspiring the next generation of bird lovers.
• They acquire and manage critical habitat, creating safe havens for birds to thrive.

These organizations are the unsung heroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that birds have a future.

Habitat Restoration: Giving Back What Was Lost

Imagine someone bulldozing your home and then just shrugging. That’s essentially what habitat loss does to birds. Thankfully, habitat restoration is like calling in the construction crew to rebuild and even improve those homes.

• Wetland restoration: Turning drained swamps back into thriving bird nurseries, teeming with insects and nesting sites.
• Grassland restoration: Replanting native grasses to provide food and shelter for ground-nesting birds.
• Reforestation: Planting trees to create new forests or restore damaged ones, providing vital habitat for forest-dwelling birds.
• Removing invasive species: Think pulling weeds but on a massive scale, to allow native plants to flourish.

These projects often involve a lot of hard work, but the results are well worth it – vibrant ecosystems buzzing with birdlife.

Bird-Friendly Gardening: Your Own Personal Bird Sanctuary

You don’t need to be a scientist or a millionaire to help birds. You can create your own mini-conservation zone right in your backyard! It’s like building a five-star hotel, but for birds.

• Plant native plants: They provide the food, shelter, and nesting materials that birds need.
• Offer a clean water source: A bird bath or even a shallow dish of water can be a lifesaver, especially during dry spells.
• Avoid pesticides and herbicides: These chemicals can harm birds directly or reduce their food supply.
• Provide nesting sites: Put up birdhouses or leave snags (standing dead trees) for cavity-nesting birds.

Turning your garden into a bird-friendly oasis is a fun and rewarding way to make a difference.

Bird Sanctuaries and Backyard Habitats: Safe Havens for Feathered Friends

Whether it’s a sprawling national wildlife refuge or a carefully tended backyard, bird sanctuaries provide critical protection.

• National wildlife refuge’s: These are generally areas that are protected by the government that preserve Habitats.
• Backyard Gardens: These gardens give safety to the birds.

Creating a welcoming space, even in your own backyard, can be a vital step in conservation.

The Human Connection: Our Role in Bird Conservation

Alright, so we’ve talked about these tiny feathered friends, their homes, their diets, and their quirky behaviors. But who’s looking out for these little guys? Turns out, it’s a team effort involving some seriously dedicated people like you and me! Let’s meet the players who are making a difference in the world of bird conservation.

Ornithologists: The Bird Brainiacs

These are the scientists who dedicate their lives to studying birds. Think of them as the bird detectives! They’re the ones conducting research on bird behavior, migration patterns, and population trends. For instance, they might be using fancy GPS trackers to follow the epic journeys of migrating warblers or analyzing the effects of pesticides on bird reproduction. Without these ornithologists, we’d be flying blind when it comes to understanding the complex lives of birds. Their research helps us identify the threats that birds face and develop effective conservation strategies.

Birdwatchers (Birders): Citizen Scientists Extraordinaire

You might think birdwatching is just a relaxing hobby (and it is!), but it’s also a powerful tool for conservation. Birdwatchers are the eyes and ears on the ground, observing bird populations in their backyards, local parks, and beyond. They’re the ones counting birds during migration, documenting nesting activity, and reporting any unusual sightings. This data is invaluable for tracking bird populations and identifying areas where conservation efforts are needed most. Plus, birders often become passionate advocates for bird conservation, spreading the word and inspiring others to get involved.

Citizen Science Projects: Join the Bird Brigade!

Want to get your hands dirty and contribute to real scientific research? Then citizen science is for you! There are tons of projects out there where you can help monitor bird populations, track migration patterns, or report sightings of rare species. For example, you could participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count or eBird, submitting your bird observations to a massive database used by scientists worldwide. It’s a fun and easy way to make a real difference for bird conservation.

Wildlife Biologists and Conservationists: Guardians of the Environment

These are the folks on the front lines of bird conservation, working to protect and restore bird habitats. They might be involved in managing protected areas, implementing conservation programs, or advocating for policies that benefit birds. Wildlife biologists also play a crucial role in assessing the impact of human activities on bird populations and developing strategies to minimize these impacts. Conservationists work in various ways to preserve and protect the environment, with some focusing specifically on advocating for policy changes or managing natural resources responsibly. They are the champions of the wild spaces where birds thrive, ensuring that these precious creatures have a safe place to call home.

Tools of the Trade: Equipment and Activities for Bird Lovers

So, you’re officially hooked on the tiny, feathered dynamos flitting around your backyard? Awesome! Welcome to the club! But where do you even begin? Fear not, fledgling bird enthusiast! It’s totally doable. The right tools and activities can transform you from a casual observer to a bona fide bird nerd (in the best possible way, of course!).

Binoculars: Your Eyes on the Skies

Think of binoculars as your VIP pass to the world of birds. Seriously, trying to ID a warbler flitting high in a tree with just your naked eye? Good luck! A decent pair of binoculars will bring those vibrant colors and subtle markings into sharp focus.

• Magnification Matters: 8x or 10x magnification are usually ideal for birdwatching, providing a good balance between image size and field of view.

• Fit is Key: Make sure they feel comfortable in your hands and are easy to adjust.

• Practice Makes Perfect: It takes a little practice to get the hang of focusing quickly, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempts are a bit clumsy.

Bird Feeders: Setting the Table for Your Feathered Friends

Want to attract more birds to your yard? Put out a buffet they can’t resist! But not all feeders are created equal.

• Tube Feeders: Great for small birds like finches and chickadees, and they can be filled with various seed mixes.

• Hopper Feeders: These can hold a larger quantity of seed and are popular with sparrows and cardinals.

• Platform Feeders: These attract a wider variety of birds, including larger species, but the seed is more exposed to the elements.

• Suet Feeders: A must-have for attracting woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eating birds, especially in winter.

• Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent the spread of disease. Nobody wants a sick bird!

Bird Baths: Quench Their Thirst

Just like us, birds need water to drink and bathe. A bird bath is a simple way to provide a refreshing oasis in your yard, and it can be a magnet for attracting birds you might not otherwise see.

• Keep it Shallow: Birds prefer water that’s only a few inches deep.
• Clean Water is Key: Change the water regularly to prevent algae growth and mosquito breeding.
• Add a Dripper or Fountain: Moving water attracts more birds.

Field Guides: Deciphering the Avian Code

So, you’ve spotted a new bird in your yard…now what? A field guide is your essential tool for identifying different species.

• Regional Guides: Choose a guide that covers your specific geographic area.
• Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with key features like size, shape, color patterns, and habitat preferences.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you use your field guide, the better you’ll become at identifying birds.

Birdwatching: Your Ticket to Adventure

Ready to put your newfound knowledge and equipment to the test? Birdwatching can be a relaxing, rewarding, and even addictive hobby!

• Start Simple: Focus on identifying the birds in your backyard or local park.
• Go With a Friend: Birdwatching is more fun with company, and experienced birders can help you learn.
• Join a Birding Group: Connect with other bird enthusiasts in your area and learn about local hotspots.

Creating Bird-Friendly Gardens: A Backyard Paradise

Want to take your bird love to the next level? Transform your yard into a bird-friendly haven!

• Plant Native: Native plants provide the food and shelter that birds have evolved to rely on.
• Provide Water: As mentioned earlier, a bird bath is a great way to attract birds.
• Offer Shelter: Plant trees, shrubs, and vines to provide cover and nesting sites.
• Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides can harm birds directly and reduce their food supply.
• Leave the Leaves: Leaf litter provides important habitat for insects that birds feed on.

So, next time you’re out for a stroll, keep an eye on the trees and bushes. You might just spot one of these little dynamos flitting about, bringing a bit of joy to your day with their tiny presence and cheerful songs. Happy birding!