In March, I did an interesting "Macro March" project where I traced seven plants each week on the same day from bud to bloom or leaf (or so was the idea--some didn't cooperate!). I did try the Autumn Olive bush in my backyard, but it progressed slowly. I did mention it was the most popular natural bird feeder in my back yard because of the berries it produces! And berries are ripening, and so the birds are coming in droves to dive in. The parent robins are visiting frequently, and I've observed cardinals, titmice, some other cute little bird I can't identify (yet), wrens, and squirrels going at it (and the berries are barely ripe!).
This shot is of a mockingbird coming up for a quick look as the birds typically go foraging in a very messy manner and then pop up to make sure they have not attracted too much attention (from a cat or something most likely).
I want to encourage folks to really use their natural surroundings as bird feed for local birds. I had a feeder in winter, but opted to let nature handle their appetites and cultivate the things that feed them as they would "in the wild." Let grass go a little wild, use very little pesticides (these guys will rid your yards of bugs all day long!).
What a beautiful capture! Love the way he has just popped up in the Bush!! I am so jealous of the fantastic number of different birds you are getting in your garden! Fav!
