Chickadees

Yesterday we went and bought a birdfeeder. It usually takes a while for birds to notice one, but chickadees are smarter than average. Already today a tribe has begun a stready stream of activity. Much like aquaria, feeders offer hypnotic entertainment. This reminds me of good times.

A red squirrel found it first, but this model is called the Eliminator. When something heavier than a bird hops on the perch the feeding holes close. Right now the squirrel is standing outside raging at the food gods. The birds will scatter enough seed for him to benefit without spoiling the party and draining our coffers.

Chickadees make me happy. They're clever little creatures with a rudimentary language identifying different types of predators (by land or by air) and possibly the location of cached food. They can be encouraged to feed from your hand. Other birds should notice their discovery before long.