Helping Spring Birds: Houses, Foods and Baths for Small, Shy Species

Hi All,
Hi, Frank Indiviglio here. I’m a zoologist and book author, recently retired from a career spent at several zoos, aquariums, and museums, including over 20 years with the Bronx Zoo.
With winter finally vanquished here in the USA (or, most of the USA, anyway!), our long-awaited migratory birds have returned and are busy fattening up and building nests. Many standard bird feeders, foods and other supplies work well year round, but spring also brings some changes that provide new opportunities for us to assist our avian friends. As competition for food (especially insects), water and nest sites increases, small, retiring birds may be forced away from backyard bird feeders, baths and houses. This is especially true in areas where Starlings, English Sparrows and other aggressive species are common. Warblers, Vireos, Wrens and similar native birds are at a disadvantage, and many are in decline. Bats are also in trouble, with many suffering from an emerging disease, habitat loss and insecticide use…a bat house can be a real boon to local populations. Following are a few interesting items that can be used to lend a hand. Read article here http://bit.ly/1lUvGoc
Please also check out my posts on Twitter http://bit.ly/13pzqCu and Face Book http://on.fb.me/KckP1m

My Bio, with photos of animals I’ve been lucky enough to work with http://bitly.com/LC8Lbp

Thanks, Frank