Orange treat

Here's the Gray Catbird that's been coming to the oranges we put out. Orioles will often come to oranges and grape jelly, but a lesser know fact is that Gray Catbirds will also. We have even had catbirds eat hulled sunflower. We just love to try new foods and see what birds we can attract. We get great joy, on a daily basis, watching all the birds in our yard and knowing that many of them are there because of our efforts.

Here are some things you can do for the birds this weekend:

1. Put out bird baths filled with clean water. It's been hot weather, for the last few days here in NH, and the birds have really appreciated a cool drink and a bath. We put the bird bath near the garden hose, so it's easy to clean the bath and refill.

2. Put up more bird houses, it's not too late. Bluebirds, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, Tree Swallows and wrens and more all use houses. Late nesters, or birds having their second brood, are always on the look-out for an available house.

3. Put up more hummingbird feeders. Cut down the competition between hummers by placing feeders on opposite sides of your house.

4. Plant annuals to attract hummers. Salvia, "Lady in Red" is our favorite pick. Verbena Bonariensis attracts hummers as well as butterflies.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend! See you Tuesday.