As winter approaches and the landscape transforms under a blanket of snow, a delightful visitor often makes its presence known in backyards across North America—the Dark-eyed Junco. Known affectionately as the "snowbird," this charming little bird brings joy to many during the colder months. This week, we're thrilled to highlight two new designs from Birdorable that celebrate the Dark-eyed Junco: "Junco Junkie" and "Snow Birds."

The "Junco Junkie" design is perfect for those who find themselves mesmerized by these tiny, fluttering creatures. With several Dark-eyed Juncos perched playfully across the design, it captures the essence of what it means to be a true aficionado of these birds. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the company of these winter visitors in your garden, the "Junco Junkie" design is a must-have.

On the other hand, "Snow Birds" pays homage to the Dark-eyed Junco's nickname, featuring a serene winter scene dotted with these adorable birds. It's a reminder of the natural beauty that accompanies the winter season, and the special place these birds hold in the hearts of those who appreciate the quieter, more subtle moments in nature.

Both designs make fantastic gifts for anyone who loves these little backyard visitors. Available on a variety of products, from apparel to accessories, they offer a unique way to express your love for the Dark-eyed Junco and share it with others. Whether you're looking for a cozy sweatshirt to keep you warm on chilly birdwatching excursions or a stylish tote bag for your daily adventures, these Birdorable designs are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

American Goldfinches, with their vibrant yellow plumage and cheerful songs, are a delightful sight in many North American backyards. These charming birds are not only admired for their beauty but also for their unique feeding habits. Unlike many other bird species, American Goldfinches have a diet that is almost exclusively vegetarian.

These birds are particularly fond of nyger seed and sunflower seeds, which many bird enthusiasts provide at feeding stations. These seeds are a staple in their diet, offering the necessary nutrients to keep them energetic and healthy. However, American Goldfinches are also known to forage for wild seeds, with milkweed and thistle being among their favorites. This natural diet plays a crucial role in their lifecycle, especially during the breeding season when they require extra energy.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the American Goldfinch is its strict vegetarian diet. This dietary preference is quite rare among birds. Their choice of food is so specific that it influences their breeding season. Unlike many birds that breed in the spring, American Goldfinches wait until late summer. This timing ensures that a plethora of seeds, their primary food source, is readily available for feeding their young.

Observing American Goldfinches in your backyard can be a rewarding experience. These birds are not shy about visiting feeders, especially if they are stocked with their preferred seeds. Watching them flit from feeder to feeder, one can't help but be mesmerized by their bright colors and lively behavior. It's interesting to note how they skillfully extract seeds, showcasing their adaptability and dexterity.

For those lucky enough to have American Goldfinches visit their yards, it presents a wonderful opportunity to observe these birds up close. You might notice them selecting specific seeds or see their feeding behavior change with the seasons. Each observation can contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of these beautiful birds.

In addition to enjoying them in your garden, you can also celebrate the American Goldfinch by exploring Birdorable's collection of American Goldfinch t-shirts and gifts. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, these products are a great way to express your love for the American Goldfinch.

Do American Goldfinches visit your yard? What do you see them eating?

The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, inquisitive bird, a familiar sight and sound in the northern half of North America, where it is a year-round resident. This bird has won over many with its boldness and pizzazz, especially considering its diminutive size. Often seen flitting about in mixed flocks alongside nuthatches, creepers, and woodpeckers, the Black-capped Chickadee is a dynamic addition to any backyard feeder, bringing life and energy to the garden tableau.

One of the most endearing qualities of the Black-capped Chickadee is its distinctive vocalizations. With a variety of calls, the most famous is undoubtedly the iconic "chickadee-dee-dee." This call is not just a random string of notes but serves a critical purpose in chickadee communication. Intriguingly, the number of "dees" can indicate the level of threat the bird perceives. More "dees" typically means a higher level of alarm, a fascinating example of the complexity within bird communication.

For avid bird lovers and casual observers alike, the challenge of decoding the Black-capped Chickadee’s alarm call can be quite engaging. Listening closely and counting the "dees" can provide a glimpse into the chickadee’s world and its perception of the environment.

If you haven't had the chance to experience this firsthand, or if the quick pace of the chickadee's chatter proves too challenging to count in the moment, recordings can be a valuable tool. Playing a recording of the Black-capped Chickadee’s call can not only assist you in becoming familiar with the call itself but also in honing your ability to discern the subtle differences in the number of "dees," enhancing your bird-listening skills.

Try to count the number of "dees" you hear, next time a Chickadee is near! Or give it a try with this recording:

So next time a Black-capped Chickadee visits your feeder or you hear the familiar "chickadee-dee-dee," take a moment to appreciate this small bird's big character and maybe try to count the "dees".

Birdorable offers a range of Black-capped Chickadee-themed items that capture the essence of this cheerful bird in a fun, stylized form. From t-shirts to other gifts, these items are perfect for anyone who has been charmed by the chickadee’s cheeky demeanor and wants to carry a little piece of that joy with them.