IRRUPTION ALERT: Pine siskins & Red-breasted Nuthatches are heading south!

An irruptive species of birds is one that sometimes breaks its typical migration pattern and winters beyond its normal range. It looks like this is going to be an irruption year! An irruption year happens when there is a lack of food in typical winter ranges, so birds fly even more south to find food.

If you are lucky enough to spot these irruptive species, you can make a report on eBird to help ornithologists track their migration, and be sure to tell us about it too!

Huge flocks of Pine Siskins are currently migrating south and into Georgia. This nomadic finch “irrupts” across the continent each winter in response to seed crops. Pine Siskins flock to nyjer feeders and other small seeds such as millet or hulled sunflower seeds. If your yard has plants or weeds with hardy seed heads, such as dandelion, Pine Siskins may feed there as well.
Pine Siskins are smaller than the American Goldfinch, with bodies covered in brown streaks and wings that are highlighted with yellow feathers. You will also notice that their beaks are smaller and more pointed than other finches in our area.

Another irruptive bird we may see here in Georgia is the Red-breasted Nuthatch. They are smaller than our resident White-breasted Nuthatches. They exhibit “nuthatch” behaviors; they creep up, down, and sideways without regard for which way is up, and unlike woodpeckers, they don't use their tails for balance. Red-breasted Nuthatches prefer peanut chips, black oil sunflower seeds, and suet at feeder stations. Bark Butter is another HUGE favorite!