AT MY BIRD FEEDER
by Bill Diller

It has been a tough winter so far, on people as well as machines. Auto mechanics are seemingly busy nonstop, while Road Commission crews don't appear to ever catch up. Travel has been hazardous, with numerous accidents reported.

If there is a bright side to all this ice, snow and cold it may be apparent only to school children, who have enjoyed a few snow days. Fans of winter sports are certainly getting their fill.

However, people aren't the only things affected by this harsh winter weather. Area wildlife is having a hard time finding enough food. White-tail deer must trudge through deep snow looking for edible plants, while squirrels are busily scampering over the drifts. Pheasants can be seen daily pecking at grain alongside county roadways, while other birds scavenge when and where they can.

Due to various factors, including the West Nile Virus scare of the last couple of years, many people, myself included, ceased feeding birds at back yard feeders. Fear of pets contracting the disease was one motivating factor.

Recently, I realized just how much our feathered friends were suffering. Numerous birds were coming to my feeder seeking relief. With a foot of snow on the ground, and the thermometer constantly below freezing, I began feeling a little guilty. So, I decided to start feeding the birds again. Little did I know just how badly they needed it.

I also realized just how much I missed watching the hijinks that go on around a bird feeder. The power plays between the various varieties of winged creatures were interesting and intriguing.

After no more than 24 hours, my feeder, which had been nearly vacant since last winter, was teeming with feathers and beaks. It was a good decision to begin feeding again, and I'm sure the birds feel the same way.

However, there is one drawback to having a back yard full of birds again. They drive my toy poodle crazy. Sure hope she gets used to it soon!