Posted by Joe Barros on October 29, 2003 at 19:02:58:
This is not huge news but it sure is another reason why to include natives plants in your yard. I planted 4 dade county pines in the swale in front of my house around 8-10 yrs ago. I have added palmettos and a number of other neat pineland species and over the years not only have the little 1-3 ft pines grown to over 20 ft but they have had been an active site for a number of birds including a roost for screech owl.
Yes, the screech owl was a joy, especially being a red phase. He roosted regularly each day allowing good views. Even Larry knew he could rely on a good view when needed and came by several times to check it out.
Today, as I was leaving for work, I heard a number of chips and grabbed my binocs. A northern parula is not surprising but when I followed the other birds moving about the pines I found a couple of other warblers pulling grubs from the needles and cones. Pine Warblers! Wow! Not only new to my yard list but to see these guys work the pine trees you could tell that they knew where they were and what they were doing. I do not think my little pineland can support a family of pine warblers but if they would stopped by regularly it would be very satisfying.
I have not had a lot of time to chase birds or even attend TAS bird walks but as my buddy Paul would say, Beer Bird! No, it was only 8 am. Life is good..........when you start your day with the beauty of birds just outside your doorstep.
Joe