Platform Feeder

My wonderful husband built this platform feeder for me. All the critters love it.

Toad and Turtle

Elijah took this picture. Three-toed Box Turtle and an American Toad.

Baltimore Orioles

How beautiful is a Baltimore Oriole!? Amazing orange dashing in and out of my yard. They love the oranges we have out for them, the grape jelly, and the hummingbird nectar. We've seen up to eight at once! This is another first for me....we have never attracted them and I am blessed to call them my neighbors this year.

This photo was taken by John Sheafer.

Scissor Tailed Flycatcher

Yay! My life list is growing. Today, the kids and I spotted many of these long-tailed wonders. They never let us get close enough for a picture, so this one is actually from google images.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

This feeder hangs just outside my kitchen window. What fun it is to see these little guys up close. Did you know that a hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backwards? The wings of this hummer flap 50 - 60 times per second or faster during a chase!! Its heart pumps 1,260 beats per minute, and it breathes 250 times per minute. That is a lot of work for a tiny bird that only weighs 2 -3 grams. If you don't have a feeder, may I suggest that you get one? At Wal-Mart, feeders are around $5 and you can fill them with homemade sugar water. That is cheap, backyard entertainment and a sweet treat for our hummingbird friends.

Hummingbird Food Recipe
1 part sugar/4 parts water
Boil the water first, then add sugar. Stir until dissolved. Let cool and fill your feeder. Excess can be stored in refrigerator. DO NOT ADD food coloring. Clean your feeder once a week. Enjoy your visitors!