Blue Jay: The John Gotti of Your Backyard

Dear Feather-Fanatics,

If a Blue Jay struts onto your Central New York feeder, you’re not just hosting a bird, you’re entertaining the John Gotti of the avian underworld. These loud, flashy showstoppers rock their bling like Frank Sinatra night at the Dark House Tavern. But don’t be fooled by their charm: these feathered mob bosses are sneaky, cunning, and ready to shake down any nest for a quick score. Let’s dive into why Blue Jays are the Gambino crime family of your backyard.

The Dastardly Don

A close-up of a Blue Jay with an open beak, showcasing its vibrant blue and white feathers against a blurred green background.

Blue Jays don’t just chirp, they announce their presence with calls ranging from a cheerful “Yo, what’s up?” to a piercing “Trouble’s coming. Scatter!” When a hawk or owl crashes their turf, these birds go full-on Goodfellas, mobbing the intruder with dive-bombs and shrieks that’d make a guest at a backyard BBQ drop their burger. Their loudest trick? A pump-handle scream that sounds like a prankster in the woods or a Red-shouldered Hawk impersonation to scare off rivals. It’s like Gotti barking orders at his wise guys.

The Impish Impersonator

A vibrant Blue Jay perched, singing dramatically against a blurred, colorful background of autumn leaves.

Like a mobster with a talent for aliases, Blue Jays mimic hawk calls to spook other birds away from feeders or warn fellow Jays of danger. Picture them grinning as sparrows flee, thinking a predator’s near, while the Jay swipes the suet. Pure ‘Teflon Don’ behavior, smooth and untouchable.

The Clever Criminal

A cartoon Blue Jay with a mischievous expression, wearing a black mask and striped shirt while holding a sparkling jewel, set against a blurred natural background.

Blue Jays are the masterminds of the bird world. In captivity, they’ve been caught crafting tools from newspaper scraps or sticks to snag food like a villain picking a lock. Finger Lakes farmers curse them for swooping down post-planting to nick seeds, pulling off heists with Gotti-level swagger.

The Shifty Scammer

A Blue Jay flying with wings spread wide, showcasing its vibrant blue and white feathers against a blurred green background.

One sly Blue Jay was spotted faking a peanut stash, hiding a pebble instead to throw off rivals. It’s the kind of decoy trick Gotti might’ve pulled to dodge the feds. Trickery at its best.

The Monogamist Mate

Two Blue Jays perched close together, displaying vibrant blue and white plumage against a blurred green background.

Unlike those Playboy hummingbirds, Blue Jays are more like that mobster couple who stay together, with a dash of drama. From mid-March to July, these birds pair up for life, and the male goes all out, feeding his mate like they’re on a honeymoon. If another Jay dares to invade their turf in late summer, you might catch the female throwing food back at him, saying, “Don’t even think about it!” It’s like a mob couple sharing a plate of ziti at Rosalie’s Cucina saying, “We’re in this together, now hand over the garlic bread!”

The Handy Homemaker

A Blue Jay perched on a branch with various tools like wrenches and pliers positioned in its feathers, set against a blurred green and brown background.

Each year, Blue Jays build a new nest, tucked high in evergreen trees, crafted from twigs, moss, and even stolen cloth or paper. They camouflage it to keep it low-key, and parents quietly clean out waste when needed. If a nest fails, the male brings new materials to the female for a do-over like buying a mansion for his mob-wife on Skaneateles Lake.

The Feathered Family Unit

A family of Blue Jays, including two adult birds and several chicks, nestled together in a cozy nest surrounded by twigs.

Blue Jays are all about family. Both parents team up to build a nest, with the male serving the female while she incubates. Once the chicks hatch (17-21 days old), the whole gang leaves the nest together, like the Gotti clan rolling out of Ozone Park. Parents keep feeding and guarding their young with the fierceness of a Gambino hitman.

The Protective Parent

A Blue Jay perched on its nest, displaying vibrant blue feathers and a distinct black and white face pattern.

Mom and Dad Jay are on high alert. The female broods chicks for 8-12 days while both parents feed and defend them. Owls, cats, and hawks prey on adults, but babies face threats from snakes, squirrels, and even crows. It’s a tough world out there, but these Jays guard their kids like Gotti protected his inner circle.

The Mysterious Migrant

A Blue Jay in mid-flight, showcasing its vibrant blue wings and striking features against a blurred background.

Most Blue Jays stick around Central New York all year, while the young ones jet south for winter, only to skip migration the next year. They’re like Gotti dodging a subpoena, unpredictable and always keeping you guessing. You’ll spot them from the eastern U.S. to the Northwest, slowly expanding their turf.

Will Blue Jays Crash Your Feeders?

Like the Gambino family muscling in, Blue Jays hit up any feeder, but they love the big ones loaded with peanuts, sunflower seeds, or suet. Stock your backyard like Potters Farm to Fork, and these Dapper Dons will be a regular customer.

Spill the Beak: Has a Blue Jay pulled a Gotti move at your feeder? Drop a comment and tell me about their backyard capers.

Check out the variety of Blue Jay Sounds and the creepy Squeaky Gate Call.

Sources:

https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/blue-jay

Birdwatchers, Birders, and Twitchers: Which one are you?

Dear Bird watchers,

If you’re reading My Birding Journal, you’re either hooked on our feathered locals or you thought this was a scrapbooking site for lovebirds (spoiler: no glue or stickers here, just wings, beaks, and backyard drama). Let’s unpack the quirky tribes of Central New York bird enthusiasts and see if you recognize yourself.

Birdwatchers: The Casual Spotters

Birdwatchers are the laid-back nature lovers of the birding scene, like hikers at Fillmore Glen who spot a sparrow and go, “Aw, cute!” They’re out for a walk, binoculars and iPhones loaded with the Merlin app just in case they want to look up. What’s their vibe? Enjoying nature’s free show, maybe followed by a glass of Riesling at Six Mile Creek or a gummy from Sweet Grass dispensary to celebrate spotting a cardinal. These folks aren’t chasing rare birds; they’re just happy to see a chickadee while sipping coffee on their Cortland County patio. Me? I’m a birdwatcher with one toe on the birder bridge, dreaming of joining Birding Bob in Central Park (but not driving six hours for it).

Birders: The Driven Bird Buffs

A person observing birds through a camera lens, wearing a hat and focused expression, set against a clear sky.

Birders are the CrossFit warriors of the bird world. Think Skaneateles Community Center regulars chugging a Wegmans protein shake and sporting Audubon-branded sweatbands. They don’t just watch birds; they study them, identifying species by a single chirp or an unusual beak like they’re at a high-stakes trivia night at Bru 64. Ready with eBird checklists and life lists longer than a Walgreens receipt, they’ll hike Labrador Hollow trails to log a warbler’s sneeze. Their fancy cameras cost more than my car, but their data supports conservation efforts that help the birding world. Birders aren’t just hobbyists; they’re basically birding FBI agents, without the sunglasses.

Twitchers: The Adrenaline Junkies

Three excited birdwatchers observing various birds in flight, surrounded by lush greenery.

Twitchers? They crave the dopamine rush, like a hunter with ‘buck fever‘ but for a rare owl instead of a deer. Twitchers will drop everything, job, family, common sense, to chase a rare bird across state lines or another country. Imagine them booking a red eye to Iceland because someone tweeted about a snowy owl in the Westfjord. Their life lists are sacred, their apps (eBird, Rare Bird Alerts) are essential, and their slogan? “Neither snow nor rain nor low-balance bank account stops Twitchers from the chase!” If birding’s a sport, twitchers are the Breanna Stewart of birders, blurry photos and all. Watch The Big Year, it’s their life in movie form.

In a Nutshell

Birdwatcher: Got feeders in your yard, toss out whatever seed’s on sale, and call it a day? You’re living the chill life, my friend.
Birder: Whether you’re a scientist at Cornell’s Ornithology Lab (or self-taught like me), logging every beak on eBird? You’re the nerd we love.
Twitcher: Itching to max out your credit card for a glimpse of a Kirtland’s Warbler? You’re a legend, and also maybe a little unhinged.

Spill your guts in the comments

Are you a patio birdwatcher, a birder with a PhD in sparrow calls, or a twitcher ready to hitchhike to Brazil for a harpy eagle? I’m dying to know what rocks to your feeders!

Finger Lakes Bonus: Need a post-birding treat? Check out the many Wineries, Breweries, and Dispensaries.

5 Tips to Protect Finger Lakes Birds During Fall Migration

Dear Birdwatchers,

Across New York State, billions of birds are getting ready for their fall journey to the tropics. Bright Baltimore Orioles, Red-breasted Grosbeaks, and the ruby-throated hummingbirds are packing their tiny suitcases and saying goodbye to summer in the Finger Lakes. Bird lovers, with binoculars in hand and hearts full of excitement, watch eagerly, hoping these little travelers have a safe and successful trip. Snowbirds from Central New York will also be heading to warmer climates for the winter. Am I a little jealous, you bet your Rough-legged hawk boots I am.

Are you wondering how you can help with the fall bird migration? You are in luck because I’ve found five ways to make for a safer journey.

High-Energy Food (This is a Biggy)

Black oil sunflower seeds, kernels, and hearts: These are a rich and concentrated source of energy and protein for migratory birds, much like natural energy drinks like we like to order at Blue Dog Drink Co in Victor.

Suet: It’s not just for woodpeckers anymore, it’s now a tasty local delicacy! During fall migration in New York, suet becomes the bird equivalent of a gourmet energy bar, keeping our feathered friends energized for those long journeys and winter prep. Honestly, suet is to birds what a trail cookie at Emmie’s Organics in Ithaca is to us—an irresistible, nourishing treat.
Mulch piles: Central New Yorkers often compete in a neighborly rivalry like who’s going to rake up leaves first and clear out end-of-summer mulch. It’s only natural when the season to come is winter. But try to hold off during fall migration. Let leaf piles gather in your yard. These tiny mountain ranges are nature’s playground, providing a cozy mansion for insects and tiny creatures that birds love to snack on. By supporting our local critters, you can keep your yard lively and fun even though it’s killing you to finish yard work.

2. Keep Cats Indoors:

Ever catch yourself thinking, “Could Fluffy be a bird assassin?” or whispering, “My Thomasina’s way too adorable to be a murderer”? Well, believe it or not, around 2.6 billion birds in the U.S. and Canada fall prey to cats every day.
Yes, it’s surprising to think your little mouser is also a bird killer. But it’s all instinct! Just like how we desperately try to snag a last-minute reservation at Lasca’s Restaurant on a Friday night, craving that irresistible prime rib and budging ahead in line to get it. Outdoor cats risk contracting tapeworms, fleas, and other diseases, and also being preyed upon by predators and becoming a hood ornament on a speeding car. Bird lovers aren’t anti-cat; they just want to keep birds as well as our feline friends safe and sound.

3. Windows:

Windows are deadly to birds, with an estimated 599 million dying per year from collisions in the U.S. alone. Homeowners can make a significant difference by doing their part with window safety.

At night, lighted windows attract and kill migrating birds. During the day, windows reflect foliage, the sky, and other birds, which makes birds think they can fly through them. I know what you’re thinking. If I cover my windows, how will I see my birds at the feeder? Okay, maybe you’re not thinking that, but I am.

So, I did some research and here’s what I found on Amazon:

52 Pcs Circle Window Decals for Bird Strikes

WindowAlert Classic Square Anti-Collision Decal

VViViD White Perforated Vinyl Window Film

I’ve rarely have bird collisions into my windows, but some people have certain birds that will constantly run into a window because it sees its reflection. That is frustrating for both the window owner and the poor bird.

4. Turn Off Lights at Night:

Did you know that most birds prefer to migrate under the cover of darkness? Bright lights can blind feathered travelers into accidental casualties, causing them to bump into buildings or becoming lost. How can we lend a wing and help them find their way south? In New York State, the ‘Fall Lights Out initiative’ runs from August 15 to November 15, between 11:00 pm and 6:00 am. Check out DEC and OGS Remind New Yorkers to Keep ‘Lights out’ to Protect Migrating Birds to find out more.

5. Pesticides:

Exposure to pesticides can affect birds in lots of ways, whether they come into contact with them directly or indirectly. Sometimes, birds can swallow pesticides, mistaking them for seeds, especially pellets or granules. Imagine a bird thinking it’s grabbing a snack only to get a mouthful of chemicals. They might also get exposed indirectly by eating contaminated prey, drinking polluted water, or grooming pesticide residues off their feathers. Birds can even absorb pesticides through their skin when they bathe or breathe in chemicals during pesticide spraying. Because there’s no Erin Brockovich in the birding world, we have to do our parts to save them.

Now that you’ve got these steps in place, you can feel confident that with your help fall migration will go off without a hitch.

Are you looking to the skies for your favorite birds flying south? Let me know what you see.

Sources and further reading:

The Impact of Pesticides on Bird Populations

Fall migration ushers in birding hikes, habitat restoration in the Finger Lakes

How to help birding during fall migration

Why Finger Lakes Birds Go Silent in Summer: Understanding Molting

Dear sweaty and bored birdwatchers,

The Finger Lakes seasons are often like a roller coaster at the New York State Fair, winter gloom, wet spring to a humid summer. Yet, often Fall can be colorful and temperate. In spite of the crazy weather, bird watchers gotta bird no matter what.

As the heat wave continues in upstate New York, wild birds often go into hiding much like snow skiers at Song Mountain in Tully.

Where have all the birds gone?

The woods become eerily silent, perhaps because even birds are too exhausted to sing or gossip about complaining humans. The birds look tired and lose their flashy breeding feathers.

Birdwatchers tend pack away binoculars until fall to avoid the sweat and frustration. In July and August, fewer submit sightings to eBird, likely because we’re busy slurping ice at Footie’s Freez in Cortland.

Birds sing mainly to amaze their secret crushes and keep other birds from stealing their eats. By July, most young birds have flown the coop. Even the Carolina Wrens go radio-silent by early August.

Some birds might keep singing a little longer just to help their little ones master the local dialect. But many throw in the towel on territorial bragging rights and start mingling in flocks. Showing off territory in the summer is about as exciting as a flat beer at Summerhill Brewing. Which never happens by the way.

Piece by piece, each species drops out of the glorious morning chorus, leaving only the most persistent singers to perform solo like Virgil Cain, a Finger Lakes favorite.

Sitting on my patio with my coffee, I’ve come to realize that the mornings are quieter and, frankly, a lot less enjoyable without my birds.

Let’s go molt at the spa

Molt is like a bird’s version of a spa day at Mirabeau Inns and Spa Skaneateles. From hummingbirds to penguins, every bird has to go through this annual feather-fest to survive, since their feathers take a beating from sunburns and physical wear. Think of it as their natural sunscreen and wardrobe overhaul. Usually, in late summer for temperate species, birds embark on a full molt to sport a fresh set of feathers for the seasons ahead.
After breeding, birds enter the molting season, which is like The Rockettes after the Christmas season, taking some R&R sipping wine, without makeup in their Rockette cozy nests.

As birds sprout new flight feathers, they might feel as awkward as trying to fit into oversized hiking boots from Davidson Shoes in Canandaigua which are crucial for a perfect fit but definitely a step out of their comfort zone. This awkward phase can leave them more vulnerable to predators, who might think it’s open season.

Ironically, the silence and secretive behavior of birds make them harder to find just when they are most abundant, because all the new young birds increase adult populations.

Instead of thinking about the ‘dog days’ of summer, consider calling them the ‘bird days.” Your bird feeders might be quiet, but it’s also a period so busy with winged activity that even the most dedicated birdwatcher might need a nap. They’re just a little harder to find, that’s all.

Keep on birding

A closeup shot of a European robin bird in a winter park covered with snow

Go where birds go once they’ve finished nesting and are no longer defending territories. Look in the trees the bushes, behind Wegmans, go to one of the Finger Lakes, and keep your binoculars with you. And keep in mind, you might be the only person counting birds in your yard or town, making your checklists as valuable as a birdbath at a Little York Plantations.

When you understand molting, you’ll realize that a bird’s ragged, patchy look in late summer is just its way of showing off its fashionable new feathers. Plus, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for how birds enthusiastically prepare for their epic fall migration, almost like nature’s own travel agents. Who knew this phase could be so interesting?

A molting cardinal on my fence. Photo taken by my iPhone 15

This cardinal did not want me to see him, but alas, “have iPhone will travel,” even it it’s only to my patio window.

Have you seen a Northern Cardinal lately that looks like he was in an ax throwing contest? No, he wasn’t at Bad Ax Throwing in Syracuse, he was just molting. But anyway, take pictures and send your entries to eBird. They will be thrilled to hear from you. Send some pics to me too!!

Until next time, GO FINGER LAKES BIRDS!

Sources and further reading:

Audubon Magazine: Why (and How) to Look for Molting Birds This Summer

Birds&Blooms: Bird Molting: Why Birds Molt and How to Spot It

Top Birdwatching Spots in Onondaga County

Dear ambitious bird watchers,

I find keeping up with the weather in New York state quite challenging. It often feels like Mother Nature is testing us with all the rain, snow, and heatwaves she can muster, just to see how we handle it.

Well, this bird-watcher plans to ignore the weather report this summer and check out some parks in the area where I can find birds that don’t want to come and feast at the all-day buffet hanging from my patio roof.

The birds in Onondaga County seem to pose for photos in the spring. The forests here look like they belong in fairy tales. In fact, you might want to swing by Syracuse Orchestra where they are performing a show called Fairy Tales.

But first, enjoy your own show of clear lakes and stunning waterfalls, making this a perfect area for bird lovers and nature fans. Onondaga County has many places to enjoy, whether you’re a skilled birder or just trying to make your friends laugh with your amazing bird calls.

Onondaga Lake Parks

Winter and early spring are the best times to see Bald Eagles at Onondaga Lake, near Syracuse. These are real bald eagles, not the popular Eagles band that might be losing their hair these days. This seasonal display in Onondaga County is worth seeing.

It’s not far from Destiny Mall where you can buy binoculars and cameras at Dick’s Sporting goods.

Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes Birding Conservation Area (BCA) in Green Lakes State Park features mature forests and large grasslands, the biggest in New York State, great for birdwatching. Visitors might see breeding Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, and Grasshopper Sparrow, as well as Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks, Eastern Wood-Pewees, and Redstarts. Pick up a checklist at the park office to record sightings and memories.

Baltimore Woods

West of Syracuse, Baltimore Woods is a bird lover’s paradise that could make even the most serious ornithologist crack a smile. Keep an eye out for the lively Common Yellowthroat and the quirky Blue-winged Warbler. In spring, you might spot the elusive American Woodcock at dawn or dusk, doing their cool aerial dance for the ladies, complete with loud calls make their message loud and clear. The center keeps the fun going year-round with activities like Project FeederWatch and guided tours.

.Clark Reservation State Park

Known for its glacial lake and unique landscape, Jamesville Park is a haven for birds. You might see great blue herons, swallows flying around, and occasionally a red-headed woodpecker showing off its bright red head. During migration seasons, look out for American pipits or white-winged crossbills. Clark Reservation is a great spot for lovely scenery and interesting bird sightings. It’s like a Broadway show, but with birds. I’d love to see humans dressed as birds, singing and dancing, wouldn’t you?

Beaver Lake Nature Center

Just 15 minutes northwest of Syracuse, Beaver Lake is so amazing, even the birds are shocked. Home to nine miles of trails, this Baldwinsville sanctuary is the ideal spot to catch a glimpse of Ospreys, Belted Kingfishers, and thousands of Canada Geese. Take a kayak or canoe out on the lake or join a guided birding tour to make the most of your experience.

All these parks are not even an hour away from me, yet I have not seen over half of these birds in real life. I need to leave my recliner, ignore the ugly weather and get out there. No matter what season we’re in Central New York, nature is always waiting to be enjoyed by all.

Next time you’re in Onondaga County, hopefully you’ll stop at one of these beautiful parks.

Let me know if you do!

Hummingbirds: Finger Lakes Brainiacs Who Never Forget a Feeder

Dear Hummingbird Fans,

On May 1, 2025, I’m buzzing like a Tom Thumb’s Ice Cream on opening day, my first Ruby-Throated Hummingbird hit my feeder before I could sip my morning coffee. This green-glitzed diva hovers with the grace of an acrobat. Happiness evolves watching these marvels flit just feet from my window. Their brilliance lifts my spirits. But her best trick? A memory so sharp it makes my ADHD brain look like a hyperactive squirrel, that thinks their sunflower seeds are in the hummingbird feeder. Say what??

Nectar GPS Masters
Hummingbirds plot nectar stops like an Amazon driver’s route from Syracuse to Ithaca. My backyard Ruby-Throat visits every salvia patch as though it’s on her Yelp list. Meanwhile, I forget whether I ate breakfast. They know a flower refills in 15 minutes, much like the patron at Foxy’s in Homer. Last spring, one little visitor seemed to ignore my shiny new feeder. Instead, she chose to swoop down near the Tioughnioga River. Here’s a tip for future success: keep your feeder in the same spot every May. Those feathered friends have your ZIP code locked in like bikers heading to Dinosaurs BBQ.

Do they remember us?

This incredible bird remembers every feeder and nectar source across the Finger Lakes region. It’s like she has this amazing mental map. A natural brainwave that astounds me every time she returns, reminding me how mind-blowing these hummingbirds are. Each flutter of her wings creates a mesmerizing display. I find myself absorbed in the mini-ballet dancer of nature outside my window. Every sighting feels like a springtime gift. It transforms an ordinary day into something truly special.

Here’s why these tiny geniuses rule my patio

Experts suggest hummingbirds remember when it was last there and whether it was worth the trip. That means the birds we watch might see us as Bru 64, serving up Guava Passion Fruit. There’s one adorable hummingbird that often buzzes around me. She zips so close that I can’t help but feel she might have a little mental list of ‘Weird Humans that feed me,’ with my face proudly stamped on it.

Brainier than most birds
Did you know that their brains pack a punch, accounting for a whopping 4.2% of their body weight? It’s like having a mini Einstein in charge of my feeder. That fancy little part of the brain, the hippocampus, is an absolute genius at mapping out flowers. Far superior to my own attempts at navigating through Walmart on a busy Sunday morning. Scientists say their extraordinary memory is crucial for mating. It is essential for survival, too. For me, in my yard, it means they never forget the spectacular salvia patch from Valley View Gardens. It’s a favorite hotspot for bird-watchers. Gardening enthusiasts love it, too!

“Got a brainy hummer?” Share your best feeder story or a photo of your feeder setup in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.

Bonus: Keep your feeder steady for a week. Let me know if she returns with all the wisdom of a PhD graduate from Cornell University. Until next time, keep your nectar flowing and your memory growing.

PS: My favorite nectar recipe: 4 cups of water for every 1 cup of sugar. Heat the water until it reaches a boil, then add the sugar. Cool it in the fridge, and voila, you’ll have fresh nectar.

When Goldfinches Aren’t Gold: Fascinating Facts You Need to Know

Dear Goldfinch Lovers,

This morning, I poured my coffee. Then, I made a beeline for my desk. It wasn’t because I was itching to dive into work. I wanted to indulge in my bird-watching obsession. As I’ve mentioned in earlier ramblings, my desk is in the prime viewing spot. It overlooks the bird feeders hanging on my patio. And what did I see? Brown Goldfinches. Yeah, that’s right.

I thought I was a knowledgeable birdwatcher for most of my adult life. Yet, when I discovered that goldfinches don’t migrate in winter, I was shocked. I honestly believed they were sparrows with just a bit of yellow on them.

Now that I’m retired, I have much more time to study the beautiful birds of nature. There’s so much more for me to learn.

As it turns out, goldfinches exchange their bright body feathers for duller ones as they prepare for winter. The new feathers gradually, creating a distinctive patchwork look on the birds.

Unlike most songbirds, goldfinches molt twice a year. At the end of winter, they grow a full set of new golden-yellow feathers. For a few days, each one will have a strange, patchy appearance. Soon, they’ll be vividly beautiful once more.

“So, for you beginners, no, it’s not a flurry of sparrows crowding your feeders; it’s the beautiful Goldfinch.” “When Goldfinches Aren’t Gold.” It holds fascinating facts you need to know. As for the rest of you, I humbly admit that there’s always new stuff to learn.

Until next time, enjoy nature in your world, even if it’s only from your window.

Sources:

The goldfinches at my feeder are starting to look dull and patchy. What’s happening to them?

Updated Winter Finch Forecast for 2024-25

On the Wing Photography by Mia McPherson

Tag: All about Birds