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Salt Lake City, nestled against the majestic Wasatch Mountains, offers more than just stunning scenery. For bird enthusiasts, it’s a haven teeming with diverse avian life, right in your own backyard. Forget exotic travel; some of the most fascinating creatures are flitting around your feeders and trees. Let’s explore seven powerful backyard birds you might encounter in Salt Lake City and how to attract them.
1. The Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus): A Drumming Dynamo
These large, striking woodpeckers are a common sight, often seen clinging to tree trunks or foraging on the ground for ants. Their distinctive drumming on wood serves as a territorial announcement and a mating call. Attract them with suet feeders and leaving dead trees standing (if safe to do so).
2. The Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus): A Tiny Titan
Don’t let their small size fool you. Chickadees are incredibly resilient, surviving harsh winters by caching seeds and nuts. They are also highly intelligent, possessing excellent spatial memory. Sunflower seeds are their favorite treat.
3. The House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus): A Melodic Marvel
These cheerful birds are ubiquitous in urban areas, known for their bright red plumage (males) and melodious songs. They readily visit bird feeders offering sunflower or nyjer seeds.
4. The American Robin (Turdus migratorius): A Springtime Symbol
The quintessential harbinger of spring, the American Robin is a familiar sight hopping across lawns in search of earthworms. Providing a bird bath will attract them, especially during dry periods.
5. The European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris): A Controversial Contender
While not native to North America, European Starlings are undeniably powerful and adaptable. They are often considered pests due to their aggressive behavior and tendency to displace native species. However, they are also intelligent and resourceful birds. Minimizing food availability can help control their numbers at feeders.
6. The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura): A Gentle Giant
These graceful birds with their soft cooing calls are a peaceful addition to any backyard. They are ground feeders, preferring seeds and grains scattered on the ground or in platform feeders.
7. The House Sparrow (Passer domesticus): A Tenacious Traveler
Similar to starlings, House Sparrows are not native and can be quite aggressive. They are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments. Like with starlings, managing food sources is crucial.
Attracting Birds to Your Backyard:
Creating a bird-friendly backyard is simple and rewarding:
- Offer a variety of food: Different birds prefer different foods. Offer sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, suet, and mealworms to cater to a diverse range of species.
- Provide fresh water: A bird bath, even a simple dish of water, is essential, especially during hot summers and freezing winters.
- Plant native plants: Native plants provide natural food sources (berries, seeds) and shelter for birds.
- Reduce pesticide use: Pesticides can harm birds directly and eliminate their food sources.
- Provide nesting sites: Consider putting up birdhouses suited to different species.
By following these tips, you can transform your Salt Lake City backyard into a thriving haven for birds, providing endless opportunities for observation and enjoyment. These powerful little creatures offer a glimpse into the wonders of the natural world, right outside your window.
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