2013's extended drought, and this winter's extraordinary cold (for this area) temperatures have made for some dramatic changes in my currently somnolent garden and in it's inhabitants. As humans, we complain about it a bit, then step into our heated homes and cars, purchase water and food simply and easily, and carry on with our lives. Others aren't so lucky.
Both of my bee hives died this year. I am not certain what caused their demise, but I suspect it was weakness and starvation. Between drifting sprays from nearby vineyards and neighbors, and lack of food plants they simply worked themselves to death. I intend to begin again in the spring, relocating the hives to a more protected area. The bees added a magic and vibrancy to my garden which was unforgettable.
The bird activity has been remarkable. With several sources of water, and many feeding "stations" around the farm, our winged friends rely on this land and our handouts for sustenance. Golden and white crowned sparrows regularly carpet the ground where I spread their preferred seed, white prosso millet. I have noted several white throated sparrows this year, with their yellow lores and fancy throats gleaming. The secretive fox sparrow has been lurking nearby as well. Spotted towhees dart amongst the undergrowth, performing their chicken scratch dance. Ebullient house finches flash brilliant red and orange as they scramble for black oil sunflower seed. Robins, mockingbirds, flickers, ruby crowned kinglets, lesser and American goldfinches, california towhees and dark eyed juncos all vie for their space at the feeders.
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Perhaps most extraordinary this year has been the presence at my water sources of the elegantly adorned cedar waxwing. These mystical birds are almost always seen at a distance, either winging from treetop to treetop, or sitting atop uppermost branches. Their whispery song sneaks into my consciousness like a remembered poem. This year they have been regaling me with stunning close and prolonged looks, as they flock to the water sources I have placed within view of my kitchen and living room windows. Their crisp masked faces and jewel tipped tails and wings are not to be missed.
My oft mentioned friend Kathleen has schooled me in the art of bird care and feeding. I purchase black oil sunflower seed, nyjer thistle (to be fed from thistle socks or small cage type feeders), white prosso millet (to be scattered on the ground near cover), and suet cakes. The heavily marketed bird seed mixes contain a lot of waste food that attracts bully birds and non natives, so best to be selective. I buy 40 and 50 pound bags from Brocco's Old Barn, or from Swede's Feeds in Kenwood. Water sources are critical, especially this year. I have several shallow dishes or plates, and when possible I keep water trickling into them. Moving water proves irresistible to birds, and watching scrub jays gleefully splashing about often makes me laugh out loud.
For entertainment and education, nothing can beat observing nature and wild creatures. You can enjoy a never ending show just outside your windows with very little effort. Provide a little cover in the form of a pile of branches or low growing shrubbery, buy a little birdseed, add some water, and stand back! Don't forget to keep your binos and a good bird book (Sibley) nearby.
