It seems like Pine Siskins have taken over our bird feeders here in central North Carolina.
I spotted this one at Bass Lake Park last week.
It was interestingly rather tame and allowed me to snap off a couple of pics at close range.

These energetic little finches are an irruptive species, which means that they move in irregular patterns throughout the winter months. Although these small fiches can be found in many parts of the U.S. and Canada in varying numbers throughout the winter, by all accounts they seem to be flocking in unusually huge numbers in the lower 48 this year.
But why?
From what I understand there is a shortage of conifer seeds occurring across Canada’s boreal forest which has caused the birds to migrate south in greater numbers than what’s usually expected.

When they first appeared here in the Tarheel State last month, I had scores of people messaging me on how to attract them to their backyard feeders (unshelled sunflower, Nyjer & Thistle seeds from any Finch blend will do).

Now, my inbox is full of people asking me how to get rid of them since it’s become quite common to have a flock of 50 or more birds at a time going to town on our birdseed (take your feeders down for about 2 weeks and the flock will likely depart in search of an easier meal).

In any event, I for one am glad to see them. It’s been many years since I’ve seen one in my own yard. I’m fascinated by how migrating birds connect us with other countries.
Love them or loathe ‘em, they are an interesting little bird for sure!

Photos by @sally_siko of @birdwatching_nc on the fabulous full frame @canonusa
#5Ds