Resident Birds

Over the millions of years this earth has been in existence most species have learned to better adapt to their environments. I have always been amazed at how some animals have taken elements in their surroundings and used them as tools to make surviving easier. When it comes to birds, many migrate in order to have greater accessibility to food or to return to certain regions for mating. There are a few birds you may be familiar with that do not migrate, or are better known as resident birds.

Doves, for example, are resident birds. They feed on seeds, fruits, and insects and build flimsy nests in shrubbery, trees, or on ledges. Most of us are familiar with their family member, the pigeon, and if you’ve ever been to New York you’re well aware they do not leave. This is due to their ability to feed off scraps from the public.

Bullfinches are another resident bird that have been known to eat outside their normal diet in order to survive winter’s scarcity.  Generally the bullfinch feeds on seeds and berries, making it a nuisance to orchards, but during the winter when these items are not generally abundant they can be found feeding from poultry carcasses.

Blackbirds have been known to use natural elements as tools. They have been spotted using twigs to clear snow from their home and their food source.

The goose is both a migratory and resident bird. The creation of manmade water ways and communities available for feeding geese have created environments where geese feel comfortable living year round. Unlike the previously mentioned feathered friends, some people are not as happy about geese making permanent residence in their neighborhoods. Goose droppings and confrontational behavior have caused a disruption in some communities.

Birds employ various nesting techniques to stay warmer through the winter months. They will use fabric or cotton pieces to create bedding and will also find homes located towards the south west to have better heating. This allows for a nest or birdhouse to be solar heated during the afternoon before nightfall.

Many birds will fly south in the winter for better survival rates, but many birds do not. It is important for us, as humans, to welcome these resident birds in our yards by offering them food, water, and shelter. In return, they give us a wonderful display of wildlife we can peacefully watch from our own homes!