Week of October 1st, 2007
Look, up in the sky? Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Actually, it is a bird, and lots of them! Every fall about this time, the original “snowbirds” come to visit, as migrating birds from all over the North American continent pass through the Eastern Shore on their way to winter homes in Central and South America. The 600-mile trip across the Gulf of Mexico is one tough flight, so the birds spend some time here on our shores ‘bulking up’ for that perilous journey.
Alabama Coastal BirdFest
Did you know that sometimes flocks of migrating birds make a temporary rest stop during that flight by landing on large tankers in the Gulf of Mexico? I learned that from a local birder who is involved with the Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a four-day event coming up later this month, Oct. 18-21. The BirdFest has guided birding tours, evening events with speakers, workshops, and a free, daylong Bird & Conservation Expo that takes place in downtown Fairhope. BirdFest’s guided tours and evening events require advance registration, and I know from past experience that trips fill up fast! To register for a trip or to learn more, visit www.Alabamacoastalbirdfest.com.
Five Things to Know About Landscaping for Birds
1. Food. Every species has its own unique food requirements. Learn about the birds you want to attract to your yard.
2. Water. With a source of water – a pond, fountain or well-maintained birdbath – you can almost double the number of bird species in your yard.
3. Shelter. Birds need places to hide from predators or escape bad weather. Trees, shrubs, tall grass and birdhouses work great.
4. Diversity. A wide variety of native plants will attract the most bird species.
5. Year-Round Care. Remember that birds need food, water, and shelter all year long.