The Return of The Pine Warbler
My Pine warbler (Dendroica pinus) friend has returned for the winter. I strongly suspect it’s the same bird that appeared last winter, because I’ve only seen one, and it comes to exactly the same suet feeder at the exact same time of year.
Although it’s a common species in the south, I’m not sure why I’m only seeing this one, migratory individual. There are plenty of pine trees around, and this species is known for eating large quantities of pine seed.
It is a common practice for some migratory birds to return to the same locations year after year. In some cases, to the same feeders and on exactly the same day as the previous year. Of course the only way to be certain this is “my bird,” would be to band the bird and match the band the following year, but this is impractical for a casual “birder” like myself.
The bird is known as Paruline des pins in France.
While the lifespan of the Pine warbler can extend to as much as seven years, the more typical lifespan is two to three years. So this could easily be the last year for my little friend. I hope not, because she (possibly a “he” but the color seems dull for a male) is an important and well loved member of my community, one I hope is around for years to come.
And while we’re on the topic of birds, I’d like to take a moment to present my thoughts on feeders. Some friends in the environmental community don’t care for feeders; others use them liberally.
The argument against feeders is twofold. One, it makes some species congregate unnaturally and can therefore spread disease. I suppose this is possible since an infected bird could easily pass its infection to another bird in close proximity; however, I cannot find a single study that provides any verifiable data about the severity of the issue. Secondly, feeders themselves spread disease, especially avian pox and Salmonellosis. This is definitely a problem, but almost always with unclean feeders. Keep your feeders clean and well spaced, and there shouldn’t be an problem.
I suppose I’m really torn on the issue. With the exception of birds, I abhor the practice of feeding non-human species. Bird feeders do appear to be a generally accepted exception to this rule, and it is a practice supported by scientists and Audubon and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Who am I to argue with them?
I’ve decided that the birds will go to other feeders if mine are not available, and I’d rather have them come to clean, well spaced feeders stocked with high quality seed than a dirty one around the corner. That’s my selfish, somewhat well reasoned argument.
Interested in comments, pro or con….
Postscript: we definitely have the Pine Warbler, but a Prairie warbler has also made it’s presence known. They are similar but sometimes confusing species, both common to the area. The Prairie is most likely on its way to Florida.