Resident Article: Let’s Talk Birds! by Ann Bilyeu

Apr 30

Written By Maple Hill HOA Board of Directors

This will be the first in a short series of informational articles about wildlife on the Front Range, and particularly Ft. Collins and Larimer County, and in your own backyard! The purpose is to educate young and old, newcomers, and those who have been here for years. With knowledge comes respect for those critters that have had to adjust to the advancing development and urban way of life.

In your backyard, watch for year-round and migrating birds. Most commonly found are Blue Jays, House and Goldfinch, Black chinned Hummingbirds, Meadowlark, and Says Phoebe, Black capped Chickadee and many more. Put a feeder out and wait. The best place for bird seed in Ft. Collins is Wild Birds Unlimited on College Ave.

Crows, Raven and Magpie are also in abundance.

Among the many hawks and falcons to be seen, you’ve most likely already seen Red Tail, or Cooper’s Hawk. Watch for the Kestrel, hovering in midair over the fields in search of prey.

And if you haven’t already, be sure and glimpse at the Osprey Nest in the west field at Willox & Shields. They come back every year to nest and hat their young. They have babies now!

And don’t forget about the numerous waterfowl you can observe in our lakes and at the Horsetooth Reservoir.

It’s important that we all do our part in protecting these beautiful birds and we can start by keeping dog and cats on a leash (according to City of Fort Collins ordinance), and their waste picked up, not only to protect our wildlife, but to protect the fragile ecosystem and groundwater.

And as a reminder, there is now NO TRESPASSING in the Natural Area/Retention area. Because of a few, and their actions that included starting fires, no one unauthorized will be allowed in the area. Please observe the leash law for all of your animals and that includes cats. Neither can be allowed to roam or use the area as their personal toilet. Think about your neighbors, think about the environment and the impact this has over time.

Next time – Cats and birds don’t flock together.