north-americas-migration-flyways
Louise Beckinsale
The North American Bird Migration Flyways

As more and more studies have been performed, it has been found that each migratory species of bird typically has its very own route between its nesting and winter ranges. At one time it was believed that birds tended to follow specific flyways all the way to their final destination, but recent research has shown […]

 

birds-at-platform-feeder
Louise Beckinsale
Tips for Keeping the Area under Your Bird Feeder Clean

This is another common question we field most days in the store; how on earth do I keep the areas around my feeders as clean as possible, and avoid future growth of weeds and other unwanted plant life? It’s a problem that plagues a great number of backyard birders, and can attract some unwanted visitors […]

 

bird-in-flight-during-the-fall
Louise Beckinsale
Fall Birding – Attracting & Finding Birds During Autumn

Most of us identify prime bird watching season during the spring and summer months, but the fall is sometimes overlooked by many. The early-mid fall season can provide some great opportunities to see new and regular birds alike, and its temperatures can make it a more enjoyable experience for spending long period of time outdoors. […]

 

loggerhead-shrike-molting
Louise Beckinsale
All About Molting

As we roll into fall, you might begin to notice the changing plumage of many of your backyard birds, particularly those of the males of the species. The process of which birds “shed” their old, dead feathers in order to grow new ones is the act of molting. This process, while seemingly easy on the […]

 

bird-house-in-the-snow
Louise Beckinsale
Should I Take My Bird House Down For The Winter?

Usually a matter of preference, we often get asked the question; “should we be taking down our bird houses once the nesting season is over?” The answer is really totally up to you. Some folks like to get them down during the winter months, simply to preserve the condition of their houses and nesting boxes, […]

 

geese-migrating
Louise Beckinsale
How Birds Navigate During Migration

Ever wonder how so many birds navigate thousands of miles per year on their spring and fall migrations? There are more than 5000 species of birds that perform this round trip feat every year, often returning to the exact same nesting and wintering locations year after year. Perhaps the most fascinating thing about bird migration […]

indigo-bunting
Louise Beckinsale
Summer Spotlight – Indigo Bunting

A beautiful small migratory bird that ranges from southern Canada all the way down to northern Florida, the Indigo Bunting is a beautiful addition to any backyard. This all-blue bird, sometimes referred to as the “blue canary” because of their lovely and uplifting songs heard throughout the late-spring and summer months. Where to Find the […]

 

merlin-in-flight
Louise Beckinsale
Best Locations in Ontario to Witness Raptor Migration

As we turn the corner toward the Labor Day weekend, migration is on the top of most birders minds. As birds begin to prepare for their winter migrations, it is a great time of year to get out and track certain species and their migration patterns. Raptors are no exception, and with the numerous sites […]