Saratoga Springs, New York

The Talk in the Store

In this section, we'll share some of the issues, questions or problems that we're hearing at the store.

SPRING MIGRATION REPORTRed0winged BlackbirdS

Here's the returning birds being reported in the area.

  • Red-winged Blackbirds are back in the area.  They are considered the true harbinger of spring! (early March)
  • Turkey Vultures (early March)
  • Common Grackles (early March)
  • Purple Finches (mid-March)

Be sure to let us know what you're seeing as spring rolls in!

 

 

HummingbirdRUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS

Our hummingbirds are ON THEIR WAY!

Though it will take them more than another month to reach us, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are starting to arrive along the gulf coast and are making their movement northward.

Keep watching our website or the hummingbirds.net site to track their progress.

  • February 27 - first reports along the Gulf Coast of Texas and Florida
  • March 8 - widespread reports all along Gulf Coast in Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi
  • March 11 - first report in central Georgia
  • March 16 - first report in South Carolina

BIRD REPORTS

Feeder activity remains a little below average overall.  But the woodpeckers remain busy.  Here's what we're hearing: 

  • Bluebirds reports are becoming more numerous.  They're checking out nest boxes.  Mealworm sales are beginning to pick up as customers help them with supplemental protein. 
  • Lori C. saw 8 bluebirds every day of her Great Backyard Bird Count last month.
  • Continued reports of lots of juncos.
  • Woodpeckers activity remains strong.  They're craving suet, Bark Butter, and seed cylinders.  
  • Goldfinches are beginning to molt.  Are you seeing this?
  • Doves are beginning to engage in courtship activity.  They mate early and often.Barred Owl
  • Still good reports of chickadees, nuthatches and titmice.  Peanuts are selling well - they still need high fat foods to get them through cold nights.
  • Sharp-shinned Hawks and Coopers Hawks are being seen around feeders.  Check out Sandra M.'s photo on our Photo Album page of a hawk with prey.
  • Numerous reports of Barred Owls being heard...AND SEEN!
  • Lots of robins have been around all winter.