#79: Birds and Bees

 I first noticed this fellow a couple weeks ago. Some folks came early for the Harleyfest they do every year out here and this bird decided to perch on one of the parked bikes. I found out later my coworker, who is usually the one sitting where I was, started feeding him last year. So I met a very appreciative grosbeak who was looking for some bird snacks. Unfortunately, I didn't have anything to give him. Still he hung out anyway--can't blame a bird for trying! 

We also have some waxwings who love the elderberry bushes. This one was hanging out by the pond, playing tag with another one. I imagine there was probably a nest down in there somewhere. I mean, plenty of food for everybody there! Maybe he should have a little talk with the grosbeak....

Folks with allergies tend to blame goldenrod when in fact the usual culprit is usually ragweed. This is why you're pointing the finger at the wrong flower--goldenrods need to be pollinated by insects as the pollen is too heavy to be carried on the wind. This is why the flowers are yellow--to attract these fellows.  

Bees also like Ironweed. It's called Ironweed as the stems are very tough and difficult to break. The bees don't care, however, as they're more interested in the nectar.  

Bonus! I call these guys "chippymunks", but it's really just a ground squirrel  (chipmunks have short, stubby tails). He also likes to hang out along with the grosbeak--we tend to drop crumbs from time to time (my coworker especially--this was a doughnut at one point....) We have loads of these guys hanging about, chasing each other across the road and along the sidewalks. 

That's all for now! Stay tuned!

Aye,

Kraneia