I've been Feeder Watching for 4 years, and I agree it's an easy way
to keep up your birding skills and occasionally find something
unusual in your own backyard.

My best one so far was an American Kestrel that was hiding in
a climbing rose on the side of my yard. He allowed me to get within
about three feet of him before taking off.

The most fun is in the winter when the chickadees get brave enough
to eat out of your hand. Once they're used to it, find some young
kids and have them do it.

I have a picture of my son at 4 with a chickadee perched on his hand.
It's one way to get a 4 year old to stand still and be quiet for more
than a few seconds. They just love it.

Well, who doesn't?

Douglas F. Daily
ddaily at u.washington.edu
University of Washington
Nursing Payroll, Box 356153
Seattle WA 98195