Who needs a weather forecast when you’ve got birds in your garden?

We’ve had some crazy weather here. I check the weather apps to get an idea of what’s coming, but all I really need to do is watch the Pine Siskins which have been around for about six weeks. As the storm system approaches, the flock gets bigger, louder, and more frenzied. Here’s what they sound like.

Do they know when a storm is coming? It’s likely they do. Research has shown that migrating birds can avoid severe storm systems. How? Maybe the birds are able to pick up infrasound, or low frequency sound waves generated by severe storms. Picking up this sound, they may be driven to eat more, knowing heavy snow, rain or wind might make it harder to find food for a period of time.

On the few days when there is no storm approaching – like this morning (picture right), I hear their twittering in the trees as dawn breaks. Once the sun is up, they move to the garden eating the seeds on the plants and what I put out for them. Usually there are about 60 birds.

Their numbers swell to around 100 the day before a storm, sending them into a frenzy, swooping down in groups of 20-30, devouring seed, jostling for a good spot and twittering non-stop. Only a couple of Black-capped Chickadees and American Goldfinches are bold enough to feed among this intense flock. Constantly replenishing the seed supply keeps me busy on storm day.

Curious neighbors ask what these birds are and why they are constantly swirling around our house. No magic here – it’s just the seed I have been putting out for them constantly since they showed up in early December. Having them here every day is absolutely one of the great joys of winter!