California Goldfinches
Posted by Vicki Davis on May 31, 2006
Q: I recently put up a nylon mesh feeder "sock" filled with thistle seed to feed the Goldfinches that already come to our fountain everyday. It's been about a week, and so far they haven't discovered it. Is there anything specific I can do to help them find it? By the way, I have found these to be curiously relaxed little birds, as they will land within feet of me in the yard, and even bathe or drink from the fountain as I stand nearby. Really fun to watch!
Thanks!
Habitat: suburban/yard
State: California
Habitat: suburban/yard
A: Whether or not a bird is interested in a specific food is not a factor if it doesn't know it exists! Whenever a new food is put out, it takes a bit of time for the birds to "discover" the new food source. My guess is that the birds simply haven't found your seeds yet - but then you know that already. I've not used a mesh feeder myself so am not sure how obvious the seeds are in this feeder. It does sound as though you have the feeder well placed. Guess I'd sprinkle some seed beneath the sock and at least try to get the birds coming closer. All it will take is for one bird to discover this new food source and the others will follow suit - don't give up yet.
John Wiessinger ( June 1, 2006)