Just a Hummingbird feeder?

Just a Hummingbird feeder?

by Cindy
(California Desert Mountains)

Borrowing a little nectar

WEll !!! This has been our SECOND surprise visitor to our humming bird feeder!

This morning.. after capturing some great shots of our little hummers.. so early in spring, and visiting with them all morning, I heard an unusual bird song out my patio door.

I was so surprised to see this GIANT BIRD sitting on the feeder, lapping up the nectar like the little Hummers!!

Of course it wasn't "Giant" at all, Maybe 6 or seven inches in length, but compared to the little Anna's, it looked pretty BIG on those little perches!

Don't quote me at all.. but I think it is either a Yellow Warbler, or a Northern Oriole. I am leaning towards an Oriole, because of the black spot under its chin and atop his forehead. And he sings like an Oriole.

He guarded that feeder all day long today. Chased some red-breasted house finches away from getting too close to it.

I have a few HB feeders out there, as well as some Scarlet Salvia's and some Fuchsias. So the little Hummers did fine.

We've also seen the Ladder-backed WOODPECKER on it!!!

I know the Orioles and the Warblers will eat berries and fruit.. but maybe because out here in the desert, we don't have much of that.. they are enjoying a taste of the nectar from the feeder!!

In any case.. its the first year, I have EVER seen a different bird on the HB feeders than the Hummers. I did see a Scotts Oriole here one day last Spring.

That was most exciting. Anyone else ever experience other birds drinking out of the HB feeders?

Please let me know!! I am LOVING backyard birding!! And all the visits from the migrating birds!!

Someone share with me!!

Cindy

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Just a Hummingbird feeder?

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Jan 05, 2012
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i have been experiencing the same thing!
by: Anonymous

I am not sure what kind of bird it is, but it looks very familiar to the one in your picture. It is more brown than yellow though. I have 2 of them that come every day and the hummingbirds sit there right along with the birds.

It's so nice to watch. The only thing I don't like is that these bigger birds broke off almost all the little perches and I am down to one now.

I live in Glendale AZ. I am trying something new, I put some nectar (sugar water) in a bowl in hopes the bigger birds will take it from there instead. No luck yet, but I just put it out there a little while ago.

I also keep my hb feeder up all year long. Love the red headed humming birds that come in the winter. Just beautiful.

Nov 06, 2011
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Hooded Orioles
by: Cindy

Hi Jim..
Thank you for commenting. I wrote this article quite sometime ago, (years) since then have been studying my field guides and gained a lot through observation also!

The Hooded is gone here in Yucca Valley, too.. however, the Scott's Oriole is still here! 32° out this morning,and the Scott's were hogging the feeders at 6:30 am, (in fact they even got into a pretty good tussle for a minute there) while the little Costa's Hummingbird was doing its best to cause such an air show around them, per chance they'd get a little dizzy and leave.. lol!

It's informative to many Ornithologists to hear about unusual seasonal sightings with some migratory birds.

I also still have the Black-chinned (A young one,) so I know its not nearing the last legs of its migrating abilities!

One of the most exciting aspects of keeping an eye on the birds.. is capturing and discovering Hummingbird bird hybrids these past few years on my feeders.

I have a Costa's and Anna's Hummingbird Hybrid and pics too, of Black-chinned and Costa's!!! All have been verified!

Maybe you will still see.. some stray Hooded's yet!

Nov 05, 2011
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Hooded Orioles
by: Jim

We have had several Hooded Orioles here in Palmdale who love the Hummingbird feeders. I won't go into all the details but Google Hooded Orioles and you'll see what the attraction to the feeders is. The Hummingbirds are not too happy but they're gone now until the Spring (the Orioles, that is).

Sep 27, 2011
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Yellow bird
by: Anonymous

I also had a yellow bodied bird drinking from the hummingbird feeder....quite a sight!!! Central Texas. Couldn't get my camera in time to catch a shot.

Aug 18, 2011
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HOAs
by: Pat

Today will be my last day to write to you. My HOA consisting of a bunch of people not from Florida decided that all the wild areas in our subdivision where you could place a feeder so the birds would be safe from the ever patrolling hawks, needed to be cut.

These are wetlands and I am going to report our Association to the Army Corps of Engineers but the damage is done. I had to take down all my feeders and now I have no place to put them except out in the open.

I know hawks have to eat too, but I will be dammed if I will feed them my song birds. Good luck to the rest of you that can still feed your birds in peace. Pat

Aug 18, 2011
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Just a Hummingbird feeder?
by: Kim

I have five feeders and a bird bath in the backyard. My feeders need refilling every other day and I was wondering why until I read some of the posts.

I have caught other birds, especially the yellow bird, drinking from the feeders. It's quite hysterical to watch.

I also have Zinfandel grape vines that have produced fruit for the first time this year and the birds love those as well.

Thank you so much for this page. It's very informative!

San Gabriel Valley, Ca

Aug 17, 2011
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woodpecker guest
by: lhdavis

six days in a row woodpeckers have been drinking from my hummingbird feeder-have never seen this before-I am in Massachusetts-

Aug 06, 2011
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Northern Bullock ? at HummerFeeder
by: Jeanne Renner

We are in Southern CA and just had our first sighting of what I think is a Northern Bullock at our hummer feeder.....There are a pair of them trying to hold on for dear life. Thanks to all for sharing their photos.

Jul 16, 2011
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Finches Draining feeder
by: Desert HB liver

Any HB feeder that finches won't touch? They're eating ALL my HB food and chasing hummers. I also have a bird bath but they're not interested. I don't want to feed them but perhaps I'll need to to divert them. I've had the orioles on my feeders also but I love them. They're is only one non greedy pair! Thx everyone...great posts!

Jul 13, 2011
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yellow birds like this at my hummingbird feeder
by: Cindy

Hi Roe, Try googling Hummingbird feeders and Orioles. With this website's address. There I have posted three different Orioles for identification. You might find out which of the three, resembles your birds.

From Wild-Bird-Watching.com

Here's the Link Cindy is speaking of:

http://www.wild-bird-watching.com/hummingbird-feeders-and-orioles.html

Jul 12, 2011
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Yellow Birds like this in my hummer feeder too!
by: Roe

I live on the central coast of California and for the last 4 days or so what appears to be two females and one male have been raiding my hummer feeder! drinking and chatting making lots of noise when approaching the feeder, drinking like mad and flying off at any sound or movement from us in the doorway or window.

after scouring the web images i can only think its an oriole of some kind!

Thanks for the help, glad to know I'm not the only one who has these visitors to the feeder!

Jul 04, 2011
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our feeder too
by: lucyann

we got a picture of what we think is a house finch coming to the feeder. First the momma came and then she brought a younger one bit smaller too and he just quivered and shook thinking he was going to get fed like normal but she didn't feed him and he quickly learned to try for himself. 3 of them sat out on our railing the other day and took turns I guess. The oriole is here first thing in the spring for a few weeks but it doesn't stay around.

Jul 02, 2011
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Custom finch feeder (sugar water)
by: Anonymous

I have 2 hummingbird feeders on my patio, one has a little perch and one does not. I have far more finches than hummingbirds so I put small branches from a pine tree on the bottom of the larger feeder with no perch, glued with contact cement. Now the finches drink from it and gather 3 and 4 at a time without splashing out all the water.

Jun 28, 2011
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me too!
by: Anonymous

I just saw the exact yellow and black bird drinking from my hummingbird feeder as appears on the banner on this page. For the past couple of weeks there was a second bird, more dingy yellow/green with brighter yellow under wings. Perhaps a male and female of the same species? They make a lot of chattering noises when they come up to the feeder, too. I'm on the edge of the western desert in northern Utah.

Jun 21, 2011
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MemToo Finches at my feeder?
by: Cindy

Finches are relentless aren't they? You could try throwing some bird seed out and about your yard.. That will keep them away from the feeders..also having a bird bath or water dish of some sort, might keep them away. It works for me!
Best wishes,

Jun 21, 2011
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Finches taking necter
by: Linda

My Dad was getting sparrows that were perched on his HB feeder and draining it dry. My husband cut the perches off and that solved the problem. Hope this helps.

Jun 21, 2011
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Disappering Necter
by: Linda

My Dad had sparrows draining his hummingbird feeder. My husband cut off the perches on the feeder, so now only the HB's have access.

Jun 20, 2011
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Finches on my hummingbird feeder
by: Beadlesaz

As I type this, I'm listening to the sound of the hummingbird feeder knocking against our bedroom window. It's one of those that affixes to the window and the finches have taken to drinking from it. I guess they are drinking?? Anyway they peck at the yellow flower like they are woodpeckers. It knocks against the window - starting very early in the morning. I wondered who was in our backyard - then I peeked through the blinds!

I'm just southeast of Phoenix.

Jun 19, 2011
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Me too!
by: Anonymous

I live in NC too and this is the first time I've had House Finches stealing my HB feed. They are driving me mad. They don't scare easy. They run all the HB's away. That's why I have a feeder up. Not for the Finches. What can you do to keep them away?????

Jun 19, 2011
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First time I have seen it
by: Dee

I'm in Missouri, and I have finches on my hummingbird feeder too. We seem to really have a lot of finches this year but this is the first year I have seen them on the hummingbird feeder!

Jun 14, 2011
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Fighting finchs
by: Anonymous

We live in North Carolina and for the 1st time since I've had my Hummingbird feeder up ( 5 yrs) the finches are fighting over it. I think they're addicted.

Jun 13, 2011
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Illusive Yellow Bird In Dublin, CA
by: Marisa

I am in Dublin California
I have been lucky enough to see A GORGEOUS Breathtaking BRILLIANT yellow Bird perch and sip nectar from my feeder 3 times in the last few weeks. He's not exactly as pictured. I was able to look long and hard at him yesterday and when I slowly reached for my camera, he took off. He's solid Bright yellow with no brown. He has a Bright Black Stripe the length of his body. I refer to him as the illusive Yellow Bird.

Yesterday just before he came to visit, a lesser colored yellow bird also perched on the feeder and he then joined her. The lesser colored yellow bird visited today, but I didn't see my bright boy today.

Jun 11, 2011
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Who else
by: Pat

I live in Florida and I went on line to see who else eats from a Hummingbird feeder as in the last couple of days my feeder has gone down very fast and there are not a lot of Hummingbirds around here yet.

This bird looks like a sparrow and he shakes the feeder and as the food runs out he sucks it up. Another reddish bird that is much larger comes from time to time, but he doesn't take much.

This was the first time for this bird. Is this a sparrow or does anyone know what it is. It does not have much in the way of markings as I said, it looks like a sparrow.

From: Wild-Bird-Watching.com

I doubt that it's a House Sparrow, may be a House Finch. Keep in mind that some are coming just because it's a liquid and not so much of the nectar quality.

Bird IDs are nearly impossible without pictures.

Jun 07, 2011
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Metoo In California
by: Cindy

Hi Me too! lol
If you google, Hummingbird feeders and Orioles, with this web site's address.. you will bring up pictures I have submitted of three different types of Orioles.

Or you might find it here too.I'm not sure if Gene has posted "Orioles" under his Common Bird list. Orioles are migratory. But common to see in and around feeders during Early Spring and Summer with some of our locations here in California.

The only Orioles that are all yellow..with blackish wings are some of the females. For instance.. The female Scott's Oriole is all yellow with dark wings. But occasionally can be a bit dusky colored about the head chest and back.

The Bullock's Oriole is all yellow too, with very dark wings.. but her belly is some what white. Not in all cases though. That's when you refer to the white wing bars (stripes) and a few other traits.

All Orioles however have sort of a white, or silver looking lining on the sides of their beaks, which are very long and pointed.

If I could have been able to post more pictures in that particular post of the Orioles, I would have submitted the female's of each, and some of their young.

They definitely are gorgeous and brilliant in color.. which is so neat to see!!

Goldfinches are yellow with black wings with white. And so are Tanagers. Just some others you might try to google.

Since this post of "Just a Hummingbird feeder", I have learned a lot with research! And purchased many field guides, on North American birds.

Best wishes on your search and with the birds that stop by your place for treats!

Cindy

Jun 06, 2011
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Me Too - in California!
by: Anonymous

I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and have had what sounds like the same bird at my hummingbird feeder for the past two days. It is such a bright shade of yellow and looks so exotic compared to the rest of the birds in the yard. It also has black wings with a little white on them. It moves so quickly, but I believe its head is all yellow. I did some research too and am thinking an oriole as well. Trying to get a picture to take to Wild Birds Unlimited for their input.

Jun 02, 2011
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Yellow and Black birds at my humming bird feeder
by: Anonymous

I live in Utah and have the exact same bird eating out of my hummingbird feeder actually I believe there is a pair have not heard them sing they scold a lot! but I am sad as they seem to have run off my hummingbirds.

I would really like to know what they are they look exactly like your pic they are very wary I have tried to get pics but they fly at the slightest movement.

I thought they might be orioles of some kind. Been fun to read the comments they must be every where!

May 31, 2011
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black and white bird at hummingbird feeder
by: Cindy

Hi MJ
Can you submit the picture here, under this same title, and then ask if anyone can help you identify it?
If I could see it, then I could help you identify it. Hopefully. Or someone else might recognize it.

May 31, 2011
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Black & White bird at Hummingbird Feeder
by: MJ

I was at my cabin in northern WI for the weekend & yesterday I took a photo of a larger bird, black & white, feeding from our hummingbird feeder. I thought it looked like a smaller woodpecker.

May 22, 2011
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Goldfinch?
by: Anonymous

Hi Cindy,

It looks like a Goldfinch to me.

May 22, 2011
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Pine siskins love hummingbird feeders too
by: Cindy

Hi Nancy
I bet you have some birds there in Chicago, that I will never see! Unless I were to take a trip there! That would be so interesting.

You will see some Hummers at your feeder, sooner or later. Odds are you are just missing them or they haven't migrated there yet?

It is amazing how many "nectar or fruit and berry eaters" will enjoy the Hummingbird feeders once they find them and can access them.

Here, I have three different types of Orioles that drink regularly from them. They are the Hooded" Scott's and Bullocks. You can google pictures of them if you don't have a field guide and see how gorgeous they are.

Also, the tiny Verdin, grey bird white chest yellow head with brick red spots on their shoulders. And then there are the Hummers 7 different species, and the ladder-backed woodpecker.

All drink regularly from the feeders. The finches aren't successful, but they do try. Needless to say, I am always brewing nectar!! lol

But it is amazing to watch them all. I hope your Hummingbirds start showing up soon, it's the time to see them in play, courtships.. all their aerobatics and the excitement in watching them.!

May 22, 2011
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pine siskins like hummingbird feeder too
by: Nancy

Hi, Cindy

I'm in Chicago, last year we had hummingbirds in our flower garden so this spring we put up a feeder for them. So far we haven't seen any hummingbirds but we do have these very tiny little brown/gray birds on it, which I finally figured out are pine siskins.

Our feeder has the plastic flowers with the mesh in the center but these birds are so tiny they can still sip from it. The other day, one of them stayed on the feeder for about 20 minutes.

I had never heard of other birds using a hummingbird feeder until I googled and found this site. We have a ton of house finches, sparrows, goldfinches, and downy woodpeckers at our feeders but so far have never seen them on the hummingbird feeder.

May 20, 2011
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yellow bird at my feeder
by: Anonymous

Hi Pamela!
Its a whole lot of fun isn't it? Now that they know that it is there.. they will be coming all the time. They will return to it over and over again! I'm sure you will see them again! If you could describe them.. maybe I can help identify them for you. Better yet.. always have your camera nearby and get a picture if you can!
It is so neat to have the same Hummers come around year after year too. And they are that friendly!
When I am on the way out to hang a freshly filled feeder.. I have to literally stop and wait for a minute, while they land on the feeder to drink, as I am still holding it!! They do the same thing to me. They are the most fascinating of all I think!
Cindy, High Desert Mtns.

May 20, 2011
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Catbird at the hummingbird feeder
by: bob

We have a catbird that visits our hummingbird feeder several times a day. We've never seen a catbird do this before. S/he has become quite skilled at it!

May 15, 2011
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beautiful yellow bird
by: pamela

I was sitting in my chair yesterday morning and looked out my kitchen window where we have 2 hummingbird feeders and there was the most beautiful yellowish color bird sitting on the feeder.

I called my husband to tell him about it and he said to take a picture. when I got the camera and looked back out the window again there was another one sitting on the other feeder. They were so beautiful.

We live in the dessert at lake Mohave in AZ and we have hummingbirds all winter long. They know my husband is who feeds them and when he is filling up the feeders or working in the garden, they will just flutter all around his head and sing to him.

They get so close to him he can feel the wind from there wings. Sometimes I will look out the window and there will be as many as 15 or 20 0f them fluttering around the feeders, so I was so excited to see these yellow birds yesterday.

I will have to go out this morning and look to see if i find the nest it was saying to look for.

May 14, 2011
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What about the hummers?
by: Anonymous

Sounds like you are on the right track, different feeders. Its unusual for the finches to persist the feeders, because they're not successful in getting to it through the holes.

I suppose if there is enough of them trying, they could spill it somewhat on the outside and then lap it up.

I'm sure your hummers are still getting to it, you just aren't seeing them!
Keep watching!

May 14, 2011
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HUMMINGBIRD RAIDERS (HOUSE FINCHES)
by: NC Ladybird

House finches dipping into the hummingbird feeder every day. My feeder has flower cups with the straw like tubes covered with a yellow screen type cover but the finches still raid it.

I have no idea how they are getting anything from it except it may spill into the flower like cup when they tip it on landing because of their weight. Removing the perches won't work.

They land on top of the flower. Can't take those off because the nectar would only spill on the ground to draw insects.

May 07, 2011
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what about the hummers
by: Deb

This year the finches have now taken over my feeders and I don't see the humming birds. Now I don't know if I should take the perches off to deter them or just stick with watching the finches.

I did buy another type of feeder with cups so maybe the finches won't be able to reach the nectar, hhmm
maybe one of each.

Will the humming birds return I wonder to where the finches are feeding?

Apr 15, 2011
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Hooded Oriole
by: Anonymous

I was looking out my bedroom window where I have my hummingbird feeder and there was the Hooded Oriole siting on the feeder. It was so exciting!! I live in the Riverside area.

Julie

Apr 08, 2011
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Oriole
by: Linda

Hi Cindy, I think you are right. It probably wasn't a hooded Oriole. It was definitely an Oriole tho'. And the sparrows were landing on the perch of my dad's HB feeder and draining it. My husband took the perch off and the Hummers were in charge once again.

Apr 05, 2011
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Just a hummingbird feeder
by: Cindy

Hi Linda!

Wow, the Hooded! Not too many people get to see the hooded. That's so cool.

I did not know that Sparrows would attempt the HB feeder! They are typically not fruit or nectar feeders. But the finches sure are.

Every now and then they will try to lick the spilled nectar off the feeders, but their beaks are so fat they can not get them through the tiny holes.

I've been watching the Orioles at my feeders, and out of the three, The Bullocks Oriole wins on aggression. If He's around, no one else can have any!

I just posted a picture of a Bullocks Oriole on this site, under the title, Orioles at my hummingbird feeder.

It's neat to see them! Thanks for posting!

Apr 04, 2011
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Other birds at HB feeders
by: Linda

Hi Cindy, Last year we had (what I believe to be) a Hooded Oriole and his mate at our HB feeders. I have also seen sparrows at my dad's feeders. We have 3 HB feeders that hold 4 cups each, and the orioles really drain them in a few days. They are fun to watch.

Apr 02, 2011
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yellow bird
by: Anonymous

Hi Koolblu !
Yes, I get the Scott's Oriole, the Bullocks Oriole and the Hooded Oriole at my feeder every year now. They always come back, and I get so excited to see them. They've been beautiful to add to my photography collection!
You could Google them and see what they look like and compare them to what you see! Thanks for the comment!

Apr 02, 2011
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yellow bird
by: koolblu

Cindy, THANK YOU!! I live in San Bernardino and I too have seen for the last 2 years,this giant yellow and black bird feeding at my nectar feeder! I've looked and looked to see what it was with no answers till now!

Sep 26, 2010
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Bats
by: Linda

Wow Meg...That is so cool.That is definitely the most unusual creature yet that I have heard about at a hummingbird feeder. How did you first learn that they were coming there at night?

Sep 25, 2010
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We have bats on our feeders
by: Meg

Each fall we have lesser long-nosed bats come to our hummingbird feeders. They are so cool to watch. See photos on my wordpress blog. http://mostlyphotos.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/2nd-annual-bat-night/

Sep 07, 2010
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Orioles and HB feeders
by: Cindy

Linda! I agree totally..
I love to see the Orioles on the HB feeders. They are absolutely gorgeous and have given me so many awesome pictures.
Further more, they have one of the most beautifully LOUD songs!! lol
Thank you!
Cindy

Sep 06, 2010
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orioles
by: Linda

Hi Cindy, I really don't mind the orioles eating from the hummingbird feeder.....we get to see them up close that way. I do have to fill all 3 feeders more often....lol.

Sep 05, 2010
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Spoiled Orioles!
by: Cindy

Hi Linda,

I too put out grape jelly and oranges, but the first place the orioles will go is the hummingbird feeders!

I have NEVER seen them eat any of the jelly, but the hummingbirds do!

The Orioles do eat the oranges though, along with another tiny little bird called the Verdin. The finches too, are all over the jelly when I put it out.

It's fun to watch the Hummingbirds eat the Jelly, cause then their long tongue comes in and out fast, like a dog eating peanut butter! lol But they go right back for more.

Cindy

Sep 04, 2010
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Oriole
by: Linda

My daughter bought a special oriole feeder, hoping they would use it instead of the hummingbird feeders. I don't think they even touched it. They still go to the hummingbird feeders. I think they are spoiled, lol.

Sep 04, 2010
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Yellow-Orange bird at Hummingbird Feeder
by: Donna

Cindy,
Just witnessed the same thing in our Richmond, Indiana back yard. A yellow-with-orange blended bird (much like your picture) sitting on our hummingbird feeder. He does have the black dot under his neck. We were thinking along the lines of an Oriole or Warbler as well.

donnaw5att.blackberry.net

Aug 15, 2010
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Sociable little things!
by: Cindy

I've had the same experience more than a few times!! I try and keep my feeders cleaned and so I take them down once in a while to do just that. One hummer was on a branch just perched.

I told it sorry little one, I need to clean it and bring back some fresh clean juice! It was waiting for me by the time I got outside.. and just circled all around me.. as I was walking to where I hang this particular one. I kept talking to it, saying hold on... etc.. but then just decided to stand still and hold it out a bit.

The little one just landed right on it... while I was holding it. I waited for it to fly back up to the branch to hang it. Its really quite amazing how trusting they are! And it was such a beautiful experience!!

Thank you for writing in!!! They are so amazing it just touches me in such a profound way!
Cindy

Aug 15, 2010
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Socialable little things
by: Anonymous

Hi Cindy, I am always surprised at how sociable they are. A few times I have taken one of my feeders down to refill it, a hummer flew up close and hovered there. Probably wondering where I was taking his feeder. If you are around them a lot, they become used to you. It's fun to watch them!

Aug 15, 2010
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Birds of a feather eat together!
by: Cindy

HI Linda!

What a precious thing to observe. I love it when they do that, Some of the hummers at my house too, enjoy the water! especially on a really hot day!

Aug 14, 2010
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Birds of a feather eat together
by: Linda in So Cal

We also have hummingbird feeders out in our backyard, and have seen a male hooded oriole and his mate eating at the feeders. One website said that they migrate to CA during the summer to mate.

Another site said that there are quite a few different species of birds that have learned to eat from the hummingbird feeders.

My dad was having house sparrows at his until my husband took the ringed perch off. Now he can enjoy the hummingbirds without having to fill the feeder every other day.

Last summer we had a female hummer that would fly down to us at eye level and flit back and forth. She then would fly up to the electric wire while my husband would turn the hose nozzle to a fine mist and aim it at her.

She would sit there and take a bath, fluffing out her wings and shaking them. She did this several times, both to me and my husband. They are a joy to watch.

Aug 07, 2010
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House Finch
by: Brenda

Don't you just love the internet?! I looked out my window this morning and saw a male house finch at my HB feeder, just drinking away.

There was a female in the bushes just a couple of feet away watching.

I thought it was rather weird that a house finch was drinking nectar, so looked it up on the internet, only to find that it's not really uncommon. I just love nature!!

Jul 07, 2010
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Woodpecker on hummer feeder
by: Anonymous

This year is the first time I ever saw a different bird on my hummingbird feeder... I'm pretty sure it was a Downy woodpecker... I was so surprised! The woodpecker was on one side and the hummer on the other. I also have an occasional squirrel that will try to drink from it. Ya gotta love these little creatures.

Gail
Upstate New York

Jul 01, 2010
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House finches on hummingbird feeder
by: Kari

I am in Michigan and recently placed a finch feeder in between two hummingbird feeders on boughs of a 150 year old Norway Spruce. Tonight as I was watching hummingbirds fly by I looked up to see a house finch sitting on the feeder, drinking nectar. I have never seen this before. It is common in spring to see Orioles on the feeders. I have quite a few red bellied woodpeckers that like hummingbird feeders as well.

Jun 13, 2010
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Was the picture taken at my house?
by: Cindy

Thank you! Its so neat to see these beautiful birds, isn't it? Who'd have thought California would have such colorful wild birds out there! But we do!! Some look like they are right out of a Rain Forest!!

The Orioles have one of the most beautiful whistling song tunes.. I've ever heard. Mine are coming back every year now, and hanging around and bring their young here too.

I look so forward to seeing them! And while people say that they eat oranges and grape jelly, well.. mine pass those things right up for the nectar from the HB feeders!!

Thanks for responding!!

Jun 12, 2010
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Was the picture taken at my house yesterday?!
by: Anonymous

I loved your photo! Yesterday afternoon in sunny and extremely windy Sacramento, I too was greeted with a surprise outside of my kitchen window.

I have NEVER seen Orioles here...often in the Bay area feeders at my mother-in-laws house. And I too announced, "There's a HUGE bird at the humming bird feeder." (HUGE...well not really all that big, but they do look like giants next to those tiny fast motors that hoover in for a quick taste and race off).

Happy bird feeding! Wish I could have captured the shot...it would have looked so much like your shot!

Jun 10, 2010
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House Finches using hummingbird feeder
by: Deb

I live in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. We have a pair (a male and a female) of House Finches using our hummingbird feeder. They sure look HUGE compared to the hummers. Pretty funny to watch.

Jun 03, 2010
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Just a hummingbird feeder
by: Cindy

Hi Kandy!
Could be.. if they are draining it that fast! You could try a bird bath.. I have one out there.. and the birds are always drinking from it. Out in the desert though, you will want to be careful of an unwanted predator drinking from it too!
My HB feeders are such community feeders!!!!
Have fun watching them all!
Cindy

Jun 03, 2010
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other birds on HB feeder
by: Kandy

I always get woodpeckers and other birds on my HB feeders. It didn't really bother me..but the past 2 days in this AZ heat...they have drained the feeder each DAY! Is there anything I can do about that? I don't know if a bird bath..or another type of feeder would work?

Jun 03, 2010
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House finches
by: Anonymous

Just moved to Texas and put out the hummingbird feeder 2 days ago. Hadn't seen any hummingbirds since we've been here. Then to my surprise the feeder was nearly empty and I saw a bird fly to it and discovered it was a house finch!!! I couldn't believe my eyes - then did a search on the web and found your site. I am glad some birds are getting to use it!

May 29, 2010
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Cardinals, Meadow Larks and such!
by: Cindy Calif high desert mtns.

Wow.. I have never heard of Meadow Larks, Cardinals, and the such, sipping from the Hummingbird feeders!

Guess you need to make sure enough feeders are out there! I have those birds around, here, all but the Cardinals. Which I'd love to see. They are so beautiful.

My Scott's Orioles have returned this year.. and they are a stunning bird. The Orioles and the Woodpecker.. (Ladder-backed are the ones that share the feeders with the Hummers. The finches and the Verdins (just barely bigger than the hummers) try and try.. but can't seem to get any out of those tiny holes.

Have fun watching these beautiful birds!
Thanks for commenting!

May 28, 2010
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Female cardinals
by: R TX

I was surprised to see two female cardinals on our hummingbird feeder yesterday. Googled and found this sight. Amazing, didn't know other birds would drink sugar water. Our hummingbirds here are seasonal.

Usually have a couple in the spring and around eight in the fall. Love watching the birds. Just discovered a wren has built a nest in a basket on our back patio and is sitting on five eggs. Amazing to live in the suburbs and have all of this wildlife to watch.

May 26, 2010
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Meadow Larks on Hummingbird Feeders
by: Barb in Utah desert

Hi Cindy. I was searching the web because for the first time this year we have huge Meadow Larks and Starlings all over our hummingbird feeders!

We've been feeding the hummingbirds for 18 years now. They come to the kitchen window every spring to let me know they are back. There are so many I have to have THREE feeders out front and THREE feeders out back!

NOW I have these gorgeous bright yellow Meadow Larks sucking the feeders dry twice a day! I guess we're gonna have to get larger feeders.

They fight each other for a spot and they guard it against the poor little hummers. I absolutely LOVE watching their antics!

We have a wrap-around porch with a rail and they sit on the top of the rail all day. There are, at last count 6 adults and 8 puffy little babies!

The adults are so aggressive my cats are afraid to go out on the porch! And we also have gotten our hummingbirds to perch on our hands while they drink.

They've been coming here long enough that they trust us. It is the most incredible feeling. My heart almost bursts! They are so beautiful and so trusting!

May 19, 2010
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Hummingbird Feeders
by: Lee

Had a robin at the feeder this morning. Didn't stay long and the hummers immediately returned.

Have had to add a second feeder, due to increased consumption.

Most interesting sight: watching two hummers feeding through the approx. 1/64" in. hole in the center of the plastic flower on a commercial feeder. Thought it impossible, but they continue to amaze!

May 09, 2010
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Oriole
by: Ronda

Looks like an Oriole to me. They love hummingbird nectar. They also like oranges. If you cut one in half & stick it on a hook through the bottom of the rind, they will eat them up. But, even more than oranges,they absolutely LOVE Grape Jelly!

When I was 1st told about the jelly, all I had to offer was Jam. They wouldn't touch that. A few days later I put out some grape jelly & they had it gone in a matter of a few hours. They are great fun to watch.

Last year I had 3 pairs of them coming to the grape feeder. The females are kind of blandly colored.

Last winter I bought the feeder that holds nectar, as well as the jelly. It has an orange plastic hood over the feeder to protect it from the weather. Anxious to see if they like the new feeder.

I'm in Mich & I haven't seen any of them yet, but they should be arriving soon. I can't wait! They are bossy & loud, but they are such characters.

May 08, 2010
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just a hummingbrid feeder
by: Cindy

Could the different birds at your feeder be a bird called the Verdin? Try Googling the Verdin.
Hope you can find out!
Best wishes,
Cindy HIgh Desert Mtns.

May 08, 2010
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thanks
by: Strange1

I have been googling like crazy to find out what bird was just at my feeder. Thought I was going crazy!! still not too sure what they were though.

Apr 23, 2010
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House Finch/HB Feeders
by: Pam

Yes, I have seen a house finch at my hummingbird feeders. The first time was last spring. He's back this year. It is an odd site to see.

Apr 15, 2010
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Finches
by: Susan

Yes, saw yesterday yellow finches drinking from our back yard HB feeder in Milton, Florida.

Apr 05, 2010
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Just a hummingbird feeder?
by: Cindy

Hi,
If they are the same type of birds at your feeders, they are called Orioles. I have three different Orioles that visit the feeders while passing on their migratory routes.

The Scott's Oriole, the Hooded Oriole and the Northern Bullocks Oriole. You can google these birds to see pictures of them, They are beautiful.. aren't they? And they have a beautiful whistling song.

They are indeed shy sort of birds, or very cautious. I have been fortunate enough to have gotten pictures of each one. I will submit a new picture of the Hooded Oriole at my feeder and title it "just a hummingbird feeder" #2.

This is the second year the Hooded has stopped by, but the first year I've gotten a good picture of it!

Its so cool, isn't it?

Sincerely, your neighbor in the High Desert Mtns. of Calif.

Apr 02, 2010
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We have the same bird here!
by: Anonymous

Okay; This is amazing! We just found your post here. We have been baffled for the last three days. We also live in the California high desert and have three hummingbird feeders in our back yard.

Starting three days ago, we were surprised to see the bird you described, and in your photo drinking from our hummingbird feeders! I was unable to get a photo, as I seemed to frighten them away when I got too close.

Today there is a pair; it seems to be a male and female. We would love to know what kind of bird it is. Our little hummers don't seem to be happy that they're here.

Mar 12, 2010
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Just a HImmingbird Feeder?
by: Anonymous

Hi Nikki!
Since I posted that sometime ago, I now have pictures of a variety of migratory birds at my Hummingbird feeders.
They include.. the Verdin.. (not much bigger than the Hummers).. the Finches, the Orioles.. Scott's, Bullock's, and Hooded!! and the Ladder-backed Woodpecker! Its really amazing. Such different songs they have.

I can always tell who is at the feeders, and excited to be there, by their songs. So distinctive.

Backyard birding has been an amazing experience. So many different birds passing through always.

It's not easy for the Finches though, to get the nectar out of the feeders, their beaks being so thick and what not. They try though! I put Oranges out for the Orioles.. just stick a sliced orange on a branch.. and watch them go crazy on them. They love it!
Thanks for posting!!
Cindy

Mar 10, 2010
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Finches are drinking hummingbird food!
by: Nikki

I have had hummingbird feeders and seed feeders in close proximity for many years, but this is the first year I have ever seen finches drinking the hummingbird food. And yes, they are. Every day.

Feb 13, 2010
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Cindy...my email
by: Ronda

Hi Cindy, thought I'd take a minute to post my email so we can communicate that way.
rhsivilsTWOatDOTverizonDOTnet
Hope you can figure that out. Pretty simple. Will look forward to hearing from you. Thanks again, Gene, for the tip.

Feb 11, 2010
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Gene
by: Ronda

Hey Gene,
Thanks for the info on how to post the email. Really appreciate you taking the time to share that. Thanks again.

Feb 11, 2010
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Cindy
by: Ronda

Hi there again,
I am really enjoying this site & all the bird stories. Looks like a nice man named Gene wrote here on this page on how to post our emails so the spammers can't get us. Thanks Gene! Will have to do that when I have more time this weekend.

Have to make this a quick post. About my Cardinal friend.

I was sorry she was lunch for the hawk & it was a sharp shinned, but I realize that is nature. She hit my window so hard that she was not gonna survive anyway.

It was very exciting to see a hawk actually catch something right before my eyes. They have to eat too. And we have tons of Cardinals.

We have a large evergreen in the back yard & one weekend we got quite a lot of snow & the trees were all covered. It was sooo beautiful & I looked out & my evergreen was dotted with red everywhere. It looked like I had hung xmas bows all over it.

I looked closer & the tree was loaded with male cardinals. I ran to get my camera, but was too late. It would've made a great pic on a xmas card. There must've been 20 or 30 males in the tree. It was quite a sight!

Anyway, have to work in the am & lots to do before I hit the pillow. Thanks for sharing your stories. Sounds like you know a lot of birds... :>)

If you have time to read Gene's post & post your email, I'll get in here this weekend & send you an email. Would love to hear more about your experiences.

I think you have more of a variety of birds where you live, than we have here. Take care & talk to you soon.

Feb 10, 2010
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Leaving Email Addresses
by: Wild-Bird-Watching - Gene

If you want to post your email address do so by following this outline.

My email At myprovider Dot com

Example: geneATwild-bird-watchingDotcom

This prevents bots from scanning our website, grabbing your email address, and sending you junk mail to your account.

In order to send email to each other just replace the AT with @ and the Dot with . Hope this is clear. This is done to protect you from the scammers.

Regards,

Gene
www.wild-bird-watching.com

Feb 10, 2010
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HB Feeder by Rhonda
by: Cindy

Hi Rhonda!
Thank you for writing back! I wish there were a way to post my e-address here.. but I am not quite sure how to do that..you could write me then. On more personal notes.. as to our experiences with the birds. I have tons of great pics.. and info on new experiences.

I would love to post more pictures..but I am not quite sure how to do that without you recognizing who they come from. Maybe just Cindy, High Desert Mtn's So. Cal? You'd have to look at the entries.

The Bees are a REAL problem. Especially here in the desert. BTW, I continue to put out nectar for the Hummers that hang in there through our ccccold season. And believe me they do.

Especially the Costa's and the Anna's/ They are my all time favorite too.

I LOVE the Sparrows. The only Sparrow that is not quite so liked, is the House. Because it can carry the West Nile virus.. and is not a native bird to our land. It is however a beautiful bird.. and actually quite bold. Not all carry it.. But it is the one bird that the virus doesn't seem to overcome.

Aside from the House Sparrow.. I have the White-crowned and the Brewer's, the Black throated and the lark. (Sparrows) My Fav is the Black throated.

They are not nectar feeders how ever.

I am sorry to hear about your experience with the Hawks. They most certainly do prey on small birds. Especially the Cooper's Hawk. I have pics of both. The Cooper's... and the Sharp-shinned.. and then the Red-tailed.. which will eat just about anything. Rabbits.. etc. Same as the Cooper's.

I have not seen them get lucky in their attempts to catch either the Quail.. or any of the birds. It'd be a sad thing.. to see.. but it is nature.

One sort of feels guilty when they attract a large number of the smaller song birds.. or others.. and then the bigger predators come in.

I have found that the smaller Birds.. do get wise..and know pretty much when to lay low.. or hide.

Cardnals are SOOO beautiful. I have yet to see one in person. Since my first few posts.. I have experienced.. almost Fifty different species of birds that come to my house for food.. just here in my yard. It is Amazing!!

So sad.. Your Cardinal story. I hate that!!
Do write.. soon.
.
Sincerely.. Cindy.. High Desert Mtns. So Cal.

Feb 10, 2010
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HB Feeder
by: Ronda

Cindy, I'm glad you still get in here to see the comments. Would love if you posted more pic's. We had a shock a few weeks ago with a bird striking our window...female Cardinal.

She was really hurt & didn't move for about 20 sec's, then as I'm getting up to go outside to see if she's alright, I see all this brown & clawed feet & in those few seconds, my mind is trying to make sense of what is happening.

It turned out to be a fairly large hawk. He snatched the little girl up so fast, all I could do was watch in horror. I know they have to eat too, but it was such a shock to see it up close & personal.

Since, the hawk has made several more appearances, landing right on our deck railing & is quite a handsome fellow.

I looked him up in a small bird book I have, but forget what kind it was now. It said they will hunt at feeders for med sized song birds. (Need to get a better book). Do you know the author of the book you have? Would appreciate if you do.

Have been looking to get a field guide, but there are so many to choose from, it's nice to hear what others have and really like.

Good luck with finding a solution to your bee problem. We have the same problem, but the Orioles visit our grape feeder so much, that they pretty much chase the bees off.

And I plant my whole deck with so many flowers that there is always plenty of food even for the bees.

I plant almost everything from seed, then collect the new seeds in the fall. Come spring, I do it all again. I'll have to post a pic from last year.

It keeps the hummers coming back in large numbers. They still are my absolute favs.

You'll have to read my story about the baby sparrow I posted under baby birds. I know most ppl don't like the sparrows, but they are almost impossible to get rid of & we've kinda made peace with the fact that they will always be around.

They can be quite funny to watch. Thanks for your post...enjoyed it very much.

Feb 08, 2010
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just a hummingbird feeder?
by: Anonymous

Hi Rhonda.. thanks for writing! I posted this about two years ago! Since then I have become very familiar with the different birds that visit the nectar feeders.

And have become quite knowledgeable in identifying the different species, thanks to a wonderful Book.. "Field guide to North American birds.. migratory etc.. great book!

Thanks for the tip on the "jelly". I did try that.. and you are right.. they do love it. I had visits from The Scott's Oriole, the Bullocks, and the Hooded Orioles.

But this year we were having a terrible problem with the Ants at first.. so we purchased the Moats.. but then came the bees. There is almost nothing that will stop the bees.

When the bigger birds go to the nectar feeders.. (especially the Woodpeckers) they spill the nectar out of the bee guarded flowers all over the feeder.. and the bees overwhelm them! Not sure quite what to do about that! It was really frustrating!

Thanks for the compliment on the picture. I've since gotten much better pictures! They are so beautiful, those Orioles.. and so are the Ladder-backed Woodpeckers! They are so comical!

Cindy, High Desert mountains.

Feb 06, 2010
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Orioles
by: Ronda

Hi Cindy...we live in southeastern Mich & we have Orioles every year. They do love our HB feeders as well.

I used to put oranges out, but I found something they like even better. Grape Jelly...yes just cheap ol grape jelly! And not Jam...won't eat that at all.

Don't know why. When I first heard about the jelly, I only had Jam in the fridge, so I put that out til I could go to the store. They would sniff, but no touch.

As soon as I replaced the Jam with Jelly, they were all over that stuff. They pretty much left my HB feeders alone after that. Not to mention, Grape Jelly is alot cheaper than oranges.

They do tend to make a huge mess w/their droppings tho(not jelly droppings, if you know what I mean). So you want to put the Jelly in a place that's easy to clean up. Great pic.

Nov 04, 2009
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Bats on hummingbird feeder
by: Meg

We get bats on our hummingbird feeders late August and into October in southern Arizona. Photos and story here
http://mostlyphotos.wordpress.com/2009/09/04/bats-on-hummingbird-feeder/

Aug 22, 2009
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hummingbird/finches/orioles
by: gee

Low Desert - just had my first finch at the hummingbird feeder - couldn't believe my eyes. In Pasadena had the hooded oriole one time - so pretty. A nice surprise.

Aug 17, 2009
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The same bird
by: Cindy

That would be an Oriole. They are beautiful birds and they are fruit eaters.. so a little nectar to them, if they can get their tongue into the feeder and take a lick.. is probably like a little bit of heaven.

They know there is sweet juice in there!! I love it when the Orioles come. I have had three different types of Orioles come.

They are the Scotts Oriole, the Hooded Oriole and the Bullocks Oriole. Slightly different markings, with the exception of the Scotts who looks like the Grim reaper with a black hood and a yellow body!! Boy do they sing beautiful.

More like a humans whistling some beautiful tune. That differentiates them from many of the other birds that are known to steal a little nectar! Like the Woodpecker.. the finches.. the Verdins.. And oh yes.. I have seen the rats there.. and the squirrels.. either of which could be stealing your flowers off the feeder, so I'd try and hang them where they would be inaccessible to them.

Bats.. I don't think so.. but I am not entirely sure. Enjoy! Don't forget to change the nectar if its not gone by about four or five days!!

It can make them all sick! A home remedy of nectar is inexpensive. The recipe is on this site.
Thank you for commenting!

Cindy
High Desert Mountains, So Cal.

Aug 16, 2009
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The same bird
by: Anonymous

We live in long beach, CA and I'm telling you that is the same yellow bird that was drinking out of our HB feeder just yesterday.

Jul 02, 2009
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who is at my feeder?
by: Cindy

If your feeder is hanging off a tree limb, it is most likely a RAT or a SQUIRREL. I've seen both attempt my feeders. A rat or a squirrel would be the likely culprit since both are hoarders, and like to collect things.. especially the squirrel.
Best wishes

Jul 02, 2009
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Who is at my feeder?
by: Ter

Something is pulling the little yellow flowers out of my feeders (to enlarge the holes?) every night. Is it bats?

Jun 29, 2009
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Grey bird at hummingbird feeder
by: Cindy, HIgh Desert mountains, CA

I get so excited when the Orioles come! Aside from being beautiful, they sing beautifully. I get the Scotts and the Hooded... so far. I haven't identified a Catbird in and around my yard yet. I know I have an Ash Throated Flycatcher that's really shy.. that keeps checking out the feeder. And a Says Phoebe.
I have a Mockingbird that comes to the porch and drinks from the bird bath., but I have never seen it at the hummingbird feeder. Let me know when you find out!! Could you get a picture??

Jun 29, 2009
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unusual grey bird at our feeder
by: Jo

We've had the usual hummers and various kinds of orioles at our feeders for a couple of years, but this summer for the last few weeks we've seen a large grey bird that seems to be a catbird. It is gray with a black fuzzy cap. I can't seem to see the brown under the tail that the book says should be there, but don't know any other bird like this one. it reminds me of a mockingbird, but it isn't. Pretty sure it's a catbird. It hides in the redbud or lilac and swoops in to feed.

Jun 17, 2009
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Ravenous Finches
by: Anonymous

I have a whole FLOCK of finches who took over my hummingbird feeder. It makes me sad that I can't use the one with perches anymore, because the hummers are afraid of the bigger birds, and I cannot enjoy watching the hummers sit and drink. =(
I feed all sorts of birds, but I wanted my hummers to have the nectar!

May 25, 2009
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I have one too!
by: Anonymous

Yes!
You are so right. It is a Hooded Oriole. I've since gotten a field guide to North American birds. Its a wonderful book. So much information.
They are fruit eaters as well. So they will steel a bit of Nectar occasionally!

I've since had a Ladder-backed Woodpecker's entire family eat from time to time, their fledglings, the Verdin..(tiny little bird), and the Scott's Oriole. Beautiful bird.

This year I have several different species of Hummingbirds too. Its really awesome to see. They're busy this summer!

I have feeders spread out. To help the little hummers see the incoming traffic this year! Goodness! They are just amazing to watch.
Thanks for the heads up on this pretty bird!
Cindy, High Desert Mtns, Calif.

May 25, 2009
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I Hve one too! In Riverside, CA
by: Anonymous

The big yellow bird is called a Hooded Oriole!! Does anyone know why they are eating hummingbird nectar??

May 12, 2009
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The same bird at my hummingbird feeder
by: Northwest Indiana

I have the same bird at my hummingbird feeder. He sits on the feeder and drinks. I looked it up and it is a Northern Oriole. Beautiful bird, bigger than a house finch and the color is a gold on the breast with a black tail and black wings. The first time I've seen then here.

May 10, 2009
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house finch
by: Anonymous

I have a pair of house finches who visit my hummingbird feeders daily. Haven't seen anything else besides the Baltimore Oriole on it.

May 04, 2009
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Re; Finches loving Hummbird food
by: Anonymous

I have House finches.. ALL over the place here. And I have never seen them at the feeder!! I've heard that they will visit them.I personally haven't seen them do it here.. in So. Cal, too!
They do come and tear up my patio furniture for nesting material.. as do the Cactus Wrens.. but I have not seen them at the feeder yet.
I was outside though with the little Hummers one day.. and saw a new bird (for me) at the feeders!! They are called the Verdin. They are smaller than Chickadees even.. I was so surprised to see another species.. almost as small as the little Hummingbirds, But they look nothing like them. They didn't seem to mind me moseying around my patio so I snapped a few pictures. A little white bird with a very lemon yellow head..with dark grayish black striped wings and tail. They were amazing to watch.. they tried every which way to figure that Hummer feeder out.. even hung upside down on the bottom of it.. wondering where the goodies were! Then they figured it out.. with beak pressed firmly in the flowers.. they were drinking away.. then BAM!! Like a little Jet from nowhere came one of the little Hummers.. and chased them away! She then, a female Rufous.. sat there ever so proudly.. guarding that feeder, for a bit. Even though I have three or four feeders.
Like you, prior to this.. I didn't know that the feeder would benefit other types of birds. I am very knew at this.. but loving my Bird Audubon!
I think I will submit a picture of the Verdin on the feeder.. and title it.. Move over Hummers!!Thank you for response!!
Cinfy

May 04, 2009
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Finches loving hummingbird food
by: Anonymous

Hello, ditto here - I found your post while googling what I thought was strange behavior - finches and hummers fighting it out in my yard over the hummingbird feeders. But in our case, if the male HB is around, he will pester the finches until they leave, pulling off cool fencing like maneuvers with his beak.
So, I'm relieved to learn our finches are not crazy!
We're in SoCal.

May 03, 2009
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Its an Orchard Oriole! Lisa
by: Cindy

Some call it a Bullocks Oriole.. but my Audubon says differently, with the same bird in pictures. Isn't it neat to see Birds with such striking color? It was a surprise to me too, being new to backyard bird watching. To see something so big on my feeder. In contrast to the little Hummers.. it was Giant! lol
Some other birds that go to the HB feeder aside from the woodpecker, around here anyway.. is also The Verdin. Its a tiny little bird about 4 to 4 1/2 inches long.. whiteish on the body with a very lemon yellow head cover.. and dark wings and tail. I have now added them to the pictures of different birds on my HB feeder. All of these birds are fruit eaters or drink from fruit.. and out here in the desert.. I can't think of anywhere they can get that. Must be some desert plant. So they are really enjoying the feeders. But Boy did one of the regular female Hummers come diving in at them to chase them away! Then she sat so proudly watching her feeder for a time!
Hope you get to see many NEW birds!!
Cindy

May 03, 2009
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I saw the same thing today!!
by: Lisa Hoover

I just saw the same type of bird that is in your picture eating from my hummingbird feeder. I've noticed this bird around my yard for the last week or so and it was so pretty but I'm new to bird feeding and didn't know what kind of bird it was. Then this morning I looked out the window and there he sat on my hummingbird feeder drinking away!!

Apr 11, 2009
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Thank you so much!
by: Cindy

Wow... the house finches? I've yet to see that. Them drinking from the HB feeder. I have them all over the place. Its not like
I am constant vigil of the feeders either though. Maybe so! Yes, they have wonderful feeders for the fruit eaters.. ha ha..(Orioles and such) But then I have way to many squirrels around the place.. and they can reap havoc on my gardens.
The one bird that has surprised me the most that I have seen on there is the ladder-backed woodpecker.. to which I think I will submit a picture an article about. Just the surprise of one being on there.
It would seem as if the sapsucker may be enticed by the smell of the nectar.. but the ladder-backed? They resemble each other a great deal. the yellow bellied sapsucker and the ladder-backed woodpecker. I am not a knowledgeable bird watcher.. but I am learning about my experiences. Could be that many woodpeckers would find the nectar enticing.
Thank you for the compliment..(the picture)
Cindy

Apr 11, 2009
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Great shot, Cindy!
by: Anonymous

The house finches LOVE my hummingbird feeders, and will drain them in short order. Orioles are pretty well known to come to feeders - there are feeders made just for orioles, but in my region (northern Louisiana), the orioles pass through pretty quickly.

I've seen my first hummer, but this early, they tend to busy themselves with the nest building, so I haven't hung the feeders out yet. I'm ready, though! I love summer!

Apr 07, 2009
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Alas.. the visitor is identified!!
by: Cindy

Thank you for the compliment on on the picture!! Since this beautiful little "Orchard Oriole", seems to be calling our place home for a while.. I've since gotten clearer shots of him.
He doesn't seem to chase off the hummers when they come, they'll even perch in the same tree.. a bit away.. and watch each other.
The little Hummers are fairly "Bold Little things" that have a pretty unique defense strategy, all of their own. They never seem worried.
None the less.. it is exciting to see what other birds will frequent the HB feeders. Orioles are so brilliantly colored, and have such a unique sound. One feels as if they are in the rain forest!!
That's it!! That's what happening to your nectar! If its disappearing fast and you see nothing!!
Keep your eyes on it. You may get a pleasant surprise.
Again, thank you for the compliment.

Apr 07, 2009
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How Sweet!
by: Anonymous

AAWWwww!!
Well, my humming Bird feeder went empty REAL fast but I didn't see any around it!
Your story would explain how the nectar disappeared so fast!!
GREAT picture!!

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