Birding Journal Observations / July - August 2012

Stunned kingfisher that was observed and released

July and August in the Lowcountry have been mild for the most part - due to steady rains. Sure there have been hot days, but that's August in the Lowcountry outdoors. However, following up on the mild winter of 2011/2012 - I'd have to say that a mild summer was experienced, and not some record scorcher for the ages. Backyard birdwatchers have special needs during this hot and muggy weather, starting with birdbaths. The number one attractor for birds, in my experience, is water - but warm water grows algae and stagnant water grows mosquitos. Remember to be vigilant in rinsing out the old water with fresh - and you will see the results too - since the birds can certainly tell the difference! Feeders with seed in them can get moldy where rain hits them, and it takes a good scraping sometimes to unlock the sticky seed goo from the feeder. Don't be too quick to cover that area back with birdseed, rather maybe give it a day to dry out and breathe - again, the birds will show their appreciation with increased activity. Looking ahead, keep you eyes peeled for fall migratory songbirds like the American redstart!
July/August observations include Mississippi kite, red-tailed hawk, bluejay, red-bellied woodpecker, tufted titmouse, red-headed woodpecker, male summer tanager, white-breasted nuthatch, yellow-billed cuckoo, downy woodpecker, dove, Indigo bunting, female summer tanager, blue grosbeak and Carolina chickadee.

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