Johnsons's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2006
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/newsletter/birdsquirrels.html

Don't Stop Now!
April 2006
Mike Hargrove, Ridge Rd. Store Mgr.

    Outdoor activities during the winter months are sometimes limited to
shoveling snow and feeding the birds. With the arrival of warm weather
and Daylight Savings Time, outdoor activities start to really pick up
the pace. Don't let the hustle and bustle of spring cause you to stop
feeding the birds. They need food sources now more than ever. It takes
lots of energy as they go through their cycle of mating, nesting and
caring for their young.

    Did you know that Gardener's Choice Bird Food Blend will attract
robins and orioles? I've had both at my feeders! Robins are omnivores
and will eat whatever is available. They prefer insects but also eat
seed at feeders. Robins and orioles are attracted by the peanuts and
sunflower chips in Gardener's Choice.

    Water is always a great, simple way to get the birds' attention.
Migrating birds that you won't see at your feeders (warblers and vireos
for example) will stop by for a drink on their way "to or from" if you
keep your bird baths filled. Fountains, waterfalls and other forms of
water in motion are especially attractive to birds. If you need a new
bird bath or just want another one, we have a great selection of
colorful new bird baths to choose from at Johnson's.

    Goldfinches have turned bright yellow and will stay in this area
until mid May. Lucky for us, at this time of year there are more
goldfinches in our area than during any other season. Their numbers will
keep building until the middle of May and then just as the males are
about to complete the change into their courting plumage, they leave
town and head out to the countryside for their nesting season. You can
enjoy goldfinches by offering black oil sunflower and nyjer in finch
tubes.

    Keep your eyes out for hummers (birds, not the vehicle)!
Hummingbirds will arrive in this area in mid April. One of the most
important things to offer hummingbirds is a natural source of
food--nectar from tubular shaped flowers. Some of their favorites are
penstemons, salvias, fuchsias, honeysuckles, trumpet vines, abelia,
buddleias and campanulas. Hummingbird feeders are great for getting the
birds closer to your favorite window for a better view, however feeders
alone are not a guarantee they will stop by. Hummers are always looking
for food, shade, water and nesting sites, so the more of those things
you offer the better your chances of attracting these colorful little
birds.

    A simple recipe for hummingbird nectar is one part sugar and four
parts water (do not add red food coloring). Bring the solution to a
boil and let it cool. You can make some ahead of time and store it in
the refrigerator for a couple of weeks. Remember to change the nectar in
the feeder every 3 to 4 days before it starts to turn cloudy.