Birds of winter

Do you love birds? So do we. Our thanks to Richard Currie, who sent us some photos this week of a few of our feathered friends who are overwintering in the area. In a recent "Ask A Master Gardener" column, Master Gardener Kate O'Lenic advised: "Feeding birds, especially in the winter, goes a long way to help them thrive. Place the feeder in a location safe from birds crashing into windows, away from sites where cats could reach the birds, and where squirrels have less chance of raiding the feeder." O'Lenic noted that to be sure birds remain healthy, the feeders should be cleaned regularly. Also be sure to clean the ground under the feeder of spilled seeds or other debris. Refill with the feed that is appropriate for the species of birds native to your area. The next monthly meeting of Birding Kingsport will be held this Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall of St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 584 Lebanon Road, Kingsport. The program will be "Winter Hummingbirds" by Mark Armstrong of East Tennessee Avian Research. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to attend. Also, the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, will offer a Birding in the Gap series on the second Saturday of February, April, June and November. Sessions are planned for Feb. 14, April 11, June 13 and Nov. 14 from 9-11 a.m. Led by knowledgeable park rangers and enthusiastic volunteers, this series is designed for bird lovers of all experience levels. The birders will meet at the museum's front gate and set out together to explore the museum grounds and the scenic Powell River greenbelt in Big Stone Gap. The park's website notes this easy, accessible walk is a perfect way to enjoy nature while discovering the fascinating world of birds. The program takes place rain or shine, so please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Binoculars are welcome but are not required. No registration is needed. For more information about the "Birding in the Gap" series, contact the park at 276-523-1322. Lastly, our own Erwin Record Managing Editor Bryan Stevens shares his insights on birds every week in the Record and online. To find out more, visit https://erwinrecord.net. You can also share bird sightings with Bryan at ahoodedwarbler@aol.com.