Native Birds of Lilac House: A Colorful Symphony in Organic Harmony

The air around Lilac House is alive with the songs and colors of native birds thriving in their natural habitat. Unlike the noisy cities filled with European invaders, this organic sanctuary offers a peaceful refuge where native species live freely and flourish. Among the many feathered residents, cardinals and Eastern bluebirds hold a special place in the hearts of visitors and hosts alike. Their vivid colors and lively behaviors create a unique spectacle, especially during the snowy months. This post explores the fascinating lives of these birds and the many others that fill the skies and trees around Lilac House.

A vivid red cardinal perched on a snow-covered branch at Lilac House, showcasing its bright plumage against the white winter backdrop

Cardinals: The Scarlet Beauties of Winter

Cardinals are among the most beloved birds at Lilac House. Their bright red feathers stand out sharply against the white snow, creating a striking contrast that delights bird watchers. Guests often attract these birds by scattering birdseed, which cardinals eagerly accept. Their presence is not just a visual treat but also a reminder of the rich native bird life that thrives here.

• Appearance: Male cardinals are bright red, while females have softer brown tones with hints of red.

• Behavior: Cardinals are territorial and often sing from high perches to mark their space.

• Feeding: They prefer sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn, all provided organically at Lilac House.

  
  

Watching cardinals in the snow is a special experience. Their vivid color seems almost surreal against the winter landscape, making them a favorite subject for photographers and nature lovers.

Eastern Bluebirds: The Jewels of Lilac House

The Eastern bluebird is perhaps the most cherished bird at Lilac House. For the past four years, these birds have successfully raised broods here, a sign of a healthy and welcoming environment. They arrive even in the coldest months, scouting the backyard and choosing between two types of homes provided: a modern A-frame house or a traditional bluebird box.

Bluebird Homes and Nesting

• Modern A-frame: Sleek design, easy to clean, and offers good protection from predators.

• Traditional Bluebird Box: Classic design favored by many bluebirds, with a small entrance hole to keep larger birds out.

  
  

Once a home is chosen, the bluebirds begin a busy season of courtship, nest building, and defending their territory. House wrens, known for their aggressive behavior, often challenge the bluebirds. To keep peace, a variety of alternative nesting sites are provided for the wrens, allowing both species to coexist.

Mating and Nesting Behavior

• Males perform aerial displays, flashing their brilliant blue feathers as they fly.

• Females build nests using grass, pine needles, and feathers.

• Both parents share the responsibility of feeding the chicks.

  
  

Seeing a male bluebird streak across the sky with its vivid blue plumage is a moment any bird enthusiast will remember. Their presence signals the health of the local ecosystem and the success of conservation efforts at Lilac House.

Other Native Birds Around Lilac House

While cardinals and bluebirds are stars of the show, many other native species fill the air with their calls and colors. Early risers can hear dozens of different bird songs before breakfast, thanks to the peaceful, organic surroundings.

Using Technology to Identify Birds

The free app Merlin, developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, helps identify birds by their calls. This tool has revealed a surprising variety of species around Lilac House, including:

• Chickadees: Small, curious birds with distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” calls.

• Woodpeckers: Known for their drumming on tree trunks. Mostly little downies, but Lilac House has hosted the huge pileated woodpecker a few times.

• Warblers: Colorful and fast-moving, often seen flitting through the trees.

• Nuthatches: Unique for their ability to climb down tree trunks headfirst.

• Goldfinches: their dull winter gives way to flashes of brilliant yellow in spring and summer

• Indigo Buntings: often heard at Lilac House but rarely seen, you might be lucky!

  
  

This diversity shows how a well-maintained organic environment supports a wide range of native bird life.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Environment

Lilac House’s success in attracting and supporting native birds comes from thoughtful care and respect for nature. Here are some key practices that help maintain this bird haven:

• Organic gardening: Avoiding pesticides and chemicals keeps insects and plants safe for birds.

• Providing food: Offering native seeds and suet in winter attracts a variety of species. The feeders can't be left up in summer, though, since the bears also appreciate sunflower seeds as much as the birds and us humans do! Fortunately, spring and summer bring plenty of food to the meadow areas around Lilac House, maintained unmowed for the birds and fireflies!

• Water sources: Birdbaths and the small seasonal wetland at the bottom of the back yard provide essential drinking and bathing spots.

• Nesting sites: Installing different types of birdhouses accommodates various species.

• Plant diversity: Native trees, shrubs, and flowers offer shelter and natural food. We're working on our second natuve pollinator garden this season.

  
  

These efforts create a balanced ecosystem where birds can thrive without competition from invasive species common in urban areas.

The Joy of Birdwatching at Lilac House

Birdwatching here is more than a hobby; it’s a way to connect with nature and observe the rhythms of life. The changing seasons bring different species and behaviors to enjoy. Winter highlights include the bright cardinals and the scouting bluebirds, while spring and summer bring the excitement of nesting and fledging. Bring your own binoculars, or use the ones provided for you in Lilac House.

Visitors often share stories of spotting rare birds or hearing unusual calls identified by Merlin. This shared experience builds a community of nature lovers who appreciate the simple beauty of native birds living their best lives.