House Sparrows creating an issue at the nyjer feeders in the backyard...

Migratory visitors are still passing through.   I have seen flocks of Robins, Siskins, Cedar Waxwings and Goldfinches heading west/southwest.   Some Siskins and Goldfinches have flown into the backyard to get a bite from the nyjer feeders.   However, I am afraid that I have detected a problem that these birds are going to encounter when they stop over; the problem is in the form of House Sparrows, who I have observed chasing the Goldfinches in from the feeders.

The nyjer feeders that I provide, include some that have the upside down feeder holes where “supposedly” only certain birds are adept to feeding from them excluding the House Sparrows.   Unfortunately, the House Sparrows in my backyard seemed to have adapted to the feeders and I see them actually perching upside down like Goldfinches in an attempt to access the nyjer seeds.   I need to do some additional observation, to conclude whether they are really eating the seeds from an upside down feeder or whether they are merely trying to get the seeds out of the feeder onto the ground.   In any case, the House Sparrows are bullying the Goldfinches when they attempt to feed and I have to find a way, to help the Goldfinches get their much needed replenishment for their long journey.

Also, yesterday my oldest boy, an upcoming birder spotted a Copper’s Hawk as he was doing his homework.   It was perched on the lamp post right outside the window where he was working.   I was very pleased that he was not only able to spot this bird, but also called it correctly; this is not easily done as many birders struggle to differentiate between a Sharp-shinned Hawk and a Cooper's Hawk.   Here are some photos from the backyard.


Goldfinch at the nyjer feeder.


House Finch taking a bath.


Goldfinches stopping over for a bite.   Note the House Sparrow also to the left...they are very aggressive and go after the Goldfinches in a vicious manner.


Cooper's Hawk staking out the backyard.