Re: trains in the garden/birds

The hawks in our area seem to be more interested in reptiles. The study that I heard of (from Europe) indicated that cats actually prefer rodents and prey primarily on birds that are sick and/or handicapped. The WSJ article also indicated feeders as focal points of disease transmission and that feeders actually select for those few bird species that willingly feed from them. (There may have been more details, but on New Year's Day, I am suffering from major sleep deficit!)
Cathy

On Wednesday, January 1, 2003, at 07:26 AM, Bonnie M. Holmes wrote:

Also saw the WSJ article. I don't fill my feeders during the warmer
weather when insects are out...feed during the winter, after some
frosts. I am wondering if that will help with the problem...the birds have
to rely on nature during 3/4 of the year...I have tried to include some
native plants that provide food for birds and butterflies. The article
also pointed out that predators (cats and hawks, for example) use the
feeders as a stakeout for birds. Also, that since many feeders are near
buildings, birds often fly into buildings, killing or incapacitating
themselves. So far, I have not seen the cats very successful...don't know
about the hawks...my feeders are under some canopies so the smaller birds
have more cover. Any thoughts?

Bonnie 6+ ETN
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