I was enjoying my morning cup of tea on the patio, when I gradually became aware of the agitated squawking of a group of Blue Jays. They had been fussing for several minutes before it got through to me that something was happening here. I grabbed a pair of binoculars–I always have a pair nearby–and scanned the trees. A young Cooper’s Hawk swept across the neighbor’s yard and landed in a treetop. It spread its tail and held out its wings, soaking in the sun. While it was drying its dew-soaked feathers and I was brushing off the cobwebs in my mind, it occurred to me that birding is like being a detective. We look for clues, a gang of scolding Blue Jays in this case, and draw conclusions–they must be upset about something, probably a hawk or owl. This is part of the fun of birding for me; it’s like doing crosswords or watching Jeopardy. Birding tests our brains, compelling us to be awake and aware and challenging us to make sense of the clues we gather.
Recently, one of our local “bird detectives” noticed a House Finch behaving oddly. On closer observation, she deduced that the bird was likely infected with House Finch Eye Disease. According to Project FeederWatch, this disease has been spreading since the 1990s, and although it is not a major epidemic, it does affect many House Finches. According to the link below, feeding birds does not contribute significantly to the spread of the disease; however, to limit the spread of this infectious bacterium, follow the guidelines below.
from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Project FeederWatch:
What should I do if I see a bird with conjunctivitis?
Take down your feeders and clean them with a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach and 9 parts water). Let them dry completely and then re-hang them. Also, rake underneath the feeder to remove old seed and bird droppings.
Bird-Feeding Guidelines:
- Space your feeders widely to discourage crowding.
- Clean your feeders on a regular basis with a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach and 9 parts water) and be sure to remove any build-ups of dirt around the food openings. Allow your feeders to dry completely before rehanging them.
- Rake the area underneath your feeder to remove droppings and old, moldy seed.
- If you see one or two diseased birds, take your feeder down and clean it with a 10% bleach solution.
for more information: House Finch Eye Disease – Project FeederWatch
Recently, I was birding in Michaux, and I heard the piercing call of a Broad-Winged Hawk. Over time, I’ve learned to recognize this particularly high-pitched call and to look to the sky whenever I hear it. That’s the kind of detective work that becomes second nature as you improve your birding skills. For those just starting out, however, there are many challenges. That’s why I am offering a brief introduction to birding and a welcome to CAS for new members and beginning birders prior to our first regular meeting of the year (details below). Also, on the following Saturday, Sep. 19, I’m leading a Beginners Bird Walk at Furnace Run Park. If you’re new to birding and interested in developing your skills, I hope you’ll join me for the meeting and/or the Furnace Run walk. Let’s Go Birding!
Details about those events and all of our great programs, films, and field trips can always be found on this webpage, Conococheague Audubon. They are also included in the Activities List which was recently mailed to all our members (along with a reminder for anyone whose membership has lapsed). You also received our annual fundraising request. The generosity of our membership makes it possible for us to do everything we do. Thanks to everyone who supports Conococheague Audubon through their donations of both money and time!
I also have to thank the crew who showed up to prepare those mailers: Anne, Jeff, Sue, Mike, Cinda, Donna, Larry, Sharon, Val, Debby, and especially Lisa. We prepared about 580 mailers in lightning speed thanks to the great turnout. While we were working in the comfort of the office, Josh Donaldson and some of his hardworking garden volunteers were getting sweaty and dirty in the Native Plant Garden at Norlo Park. The garden looks great thanks to their efforts. You should go see it sometime if you haven’t been there recently, and if you know of any organizations that might like to arrange to tour the garden next year, let Josh know!
Get Involved with CAS
Join the fun and help CAS in its efforts to support conservation and spread interest in nature, especially birds. We are currently seeking volunteers to pitch in with the following.
Financial Support: A request for donations has arrived in your mailbox. If you wish to donate, just send your check to Conococheague Audubon Society, PO Box 20, Fayetteville, PA 17222. Thanks to all who donate!
Adopt-a-Highway: Come help clear trash with our team of dedicated volunteers: NEXT DATE Sat. Sep. 26, 9:00 am.
WebsiteTrainee: Val Barnes is looking for a trainee who is interested in learning the ins and outs of managing our website. The website provides a vital link for members to find the latest information about our activities etc., and we would like to have someone to help Val keep it up-to-date. You don’t need to be an expert; all you need is a desire to learn! You can email me or Val if you have questions or would like to volunteer.
Vice President: Currently the position acts as an assistant to the President and will not be required to become President at the end of their term. If you’re considering maybe possibly volunteering, we can discuss how you would like to contribute to the leadership team of CAS. Contact me at writinron@comcast.net
Everything Else: Email conaudubon@outlook.com if you would like to get involved in any of our activities:
- presenting free nature films to the public
- contributing photos and articles to our newsletter Naturally
- monitoring Bluebird trails
- maintaining bird feeders at Caledonia State Park
- counting birds for the annual Christmas Bird Count (feeder watching or in the field)
- leading bird trips
- offering our yearly Beginning Birder Workshop
- caring for the Native Plant Garden at Norlo Park
- providing outreach to the public
Next Meeting
Note about Zoom: If you plan to attend any of our upcoming meetings via Zoom, be aware that due to changes in our security settings, you will need to be registered for a (free) Zoom account. Once you sign-in to the meeting, you will enter a “waiting room” before you are invited into the meeting.
Monday Sep. 14, 2026, 7:00 pm: The first regular meeting of the new season! We’re launching this year’s season with Native Seed Workshop (Site Prep, Pre-treatment, and Planting) by James Thomson, owner of Wildscape Blooms. You’re probably aware of the importance of growing native plants; now, you can learn what it takes to bring some of those beautiful beneficial natives into your own landscape!
Monday Sep. 14, 2026, 6:00 pm: Prior to the first regular meeting, there will be a half-hour welcome and introduction to birding entitled Let’s Go Birding, by Ron George. If you’re new to birding or new to Conococheague Audubon Society (CAS), I hope you’ll come and learn a bit about birding and about all the great things we do. Plus, you’ll get to see photos of 50 different cool birds! The presentation is only 30 minutes, so we’ll be moving at the speed of 100 BPH (Birds Per Hour)!