Nature Happenings

• October is the best month to start watching for rare northern ducks and loons on the Front Range.
• The Common Grackle is a nemesis to many local bird feeders. Gathering in ever-growing flocks, these birds prepare to migrate south to bother the nice folks in Texas.
• In the past, Mourning Doves were fall migrants. But due to an ever-warmer climate, increased winter cover in suburban backyards and availability of wider range of food, they are seen in communal flocks throughout the winter.
• White-winged Doves are seen with more frequency.
• All members of the dove family favor ground feeders, seed blocks and flat trays of millet and cracked corn.
• The first storms of winter usher in winter migrants which often seek shelter in the cover of backyards.
• Many members of the sparrow family (Chipping, White-crowned, Brewer's, Song and Lincoln's) join the ubiquitous House Sparrow at ground feeders.
• Sparrows can be seen scratching for fallen seeds in fading gardens.
• Leave spent perennials standing to provide cover and much needed food for our winter visitors.
• Orionids meteor shower is late-October.