We could live offa the fatta the lan’.
- John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men
Birds and squirrels are frequent visitors to my birdbath area where I also put out sunflower seeds. This week I noticed a little mouse had also decided to pay a visit. I’m guessing it was a Deer Mouse as it appeared to have a lighter underbelly. I’ve seen them before. It didn’t look like a vole, which is darker with a shorter tail.
At this time of year, insects are plentiful and it’s easier for animals of all types to find food. Some plants have already gone to seed. I see a year round benefit to offering water, but is there a point at which one should stop offering bird seed? Isn’t there enough out there already for birds and squirrels to eat?
I leave enough time between feedings to make sure that all the seed is cleaned up, but this little guy was bold enough to come to the top of the feeder. He wasn’t satisfied with the odd seed that might have fallen on the ground and been overlooked by the birds. I don’t mind seeing the odd mouse or vole at my feeder, but I don’t know how I’d feel if I suddenly saw several of them dining there…
