Fall Trees Reveal Their Secrets

Once the leaves drop, deciduous trees reveal some secrets. I’m looking at the apple tree in the front of the Wild Birds Unlimited - East Lansing store and I see a tiny nest. I heard the babies not too long ago and now I know they began their life not far from the front door.

If you are going on a walk look up and see what you can discover. Not all nests are abandoned or built by birds. If you see a big ball of dead leaves and twigs this might be a squirrel nest or "drey". Squirrels also will build nests, or "dens", in hollow tree cavities or in squirrel boxes like we sell at Wild Birds Unlimited.

How would you like to forage for your Thanksgiving meal? Think like a bird and see what seeds, berries, fruits and nuts are available. More importantly, enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn and let nature nurture.

Take a minute to look at the bark of trees too. I saw the lines of tiny, shallow holes the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker made in the spring. You might see a Screech-Owl hiding.