Hawks May Visit Birdfeeder With An Eye For Other Guests

To hawks, back-yard birdfeeders are like a buffet line — a little sparrow, some finch, grosbeaks, and maybe for dessert, a chickadee.

It’s not rare to see hawks snag and eat a small bird right at the feeder. And, if you’re to guess at what kind of hawk is out there dining at the buffet line, think Cooper’s or sharp-shinned.

These two smaller hawks are the most common diners at feeders in our area, although other hawks will also hunt at these songbird gathering spots.

Cooper’s and sharp-shins look similar. Sharp-shins, however have small heads, giving them a pin-headed look, and have more squared tails; Cooper’s generally have large heads and rounded tails.

If you’re looking for hawks, watch for a sharp-shinned hawk to blast through your yard as the birds scatter.

When birds at the feeder are “frozen,” not moving a muscle or feeding, it’s a sure sign they’ve spotted a hawk soaring high over the yard. (From October Birder’s World)

Is there room at your inn? Number of stray cats and dogs put down every year in the United States: 6 million (from Dec. 21 Time)

Tell us your preference: Bird books abound. But talk to any avid birder and you’re likely to find that even though his or her collection of bird guides may be extensive, often only one or two favorites are used.

We’re interested in knowing which birding guide is your favorite. Send a note telling us which book you use most often and what aspects made it your favorite. Be sure to include your name, the town or area you live in and a phone number in case we need more information. We’ll publish a list of favored books in a future Critter Watch. Send it to Critter Watch, Features Department, The Spokesman-Review, 999 W. Riverside, Spokane, WA 99201, or via e-mail at the address below.

Backyard journal: Small pine trees are turning cinnamon brown, evidence of hungry porcupines. Near the ground, all the bark has been chewed off the trees, leaving the blond wood beneath naked. Neighbors have reported the same; we think there’s an extended porcupine family sharing our yards.