Nature Blog

Songbird Diseases & Bird Feeders: What To Look For

Bird feeding is a popular and enjoyable winter pastime for many people, bringing birds in close for easy viewing. While it is widely practiced and can even help biologists monitor populations through programs such as Project FeederWatch, there are some potential negative side effects of feeding birds.

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Bringing Birders Together: The Great Backyard Bird Count!

By Anna Autilio Lead Environmental Educator In 2018, we mark the centennial of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the most powerful and important bird-protection law ever passed. In honor of this milestone, nature lovers around the world are joining forces to celebrate 2018 as the “Year of the Bird.” February’s call to action is participation in…

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Oh, Baby! VINS’ First Baby Bird of the Season.

Spring has arrived in New England, and for VINS this means the arrival of “baby bird season.” Right now, birds are busy finding mates, establishing territories, building nests, and, for the lady-birds, laying eggs. While many birds successfully raise their young to adulthood, there are some whose babies find themselves in need of a helping…

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Mirror, mirror on the wall…

Who’s the fairest dove of them all?This mourning dove is admiring his fine self in the mirror we’ve put in his enclosure. Currently receiving treatment for frostbitten feet, the dove is residing in a small enclosure where he is easily handled for medications and treatment. However, as you may well know, mourning doves are flock animals,…

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Uh-oh, MODO!

This little MODO (mourning dove) was brought to the VINS Wildlife Services department earlier this week. He was found roadside in Warren, VT, likely hit by a car. Mourning doves are special birds. Their big brown eye pull you right in; their soothing summer coo will lull you. But don’t be fooled by these plump…

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