By Emily Wei, Lifestyle Columnist
Happy June, everyone! At first, I wasn’t sure what to write about for this month’s column. Then one morning, I woke up not to the sound of my alarm, but to the cheerful chirping of birds outside my window, welcoming the sun into a new day. Then I realized how little I actually know about the birds around us. Yet, I rely on them almost every morning to lift my mood. If you’re a bird expert, this might sound a little silly. But I’ll admit that most of the time, I’m oblivious to our little sky friends. I’m either looking down at my phone (unfortunately) or distracted by the plants and trails around me. So this month, let’s go back to basics and do a quick overview of some birds in our neighbourhood, along with a few tips to help you get to know them a bit better.
Let’s start with pigeons. They may not be the most graceful or striking birds, but they’re far more interesting than people give them credit for. The most common type we see here in Nova Scotia is the Rock Pigeon. They are so widespread because of their long history with humans. They were domesticated for tasks like carrying messages and racing, so if you notice one waddling a little too close while you’re eating outdoors, don’t be alarmed. In their eyes, we’re not strangers but old companions. A bird you’re likely to hear before you ever see is the song sparrow. These small, brown-streaked birds are best known for their voice. Their song is one of the most familiar sounds of spring and summer, often being the cheerful melody you hear first thing in the morning. Each one has a slightly different tune, but they usually start with a few clear notes followed by a lively trill. This is part of the “dawn chorus,” a phenomenon you might have noticed with birds becoming especially vocal in spring during sunrises. It’s the male birds’ way of marking territory and attracting mates.
If you’re hoping to attract more birds to your yard, consider adding a shallow birdbath to your deck or garden. You can even make your own by filling a plant saucer with water and placing a few stones inside for perching. Birds are especially drawn to water in the warmer months, and a birdbath can be just as inviting as a feeder. Just remember to clean it regularly to prevent algae buildup. It’s also important to note that every year, countless birds are injured or killed by flying into windows. To help prevent this, try applying window decals, UV-reflective tape, or netting to any glass surfaces (especially near feeders or deck panels). These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping our feathered friends safe.
