As we tend to our feeders, we realize we’re helping out our friends by giving them a ready source of food, water, cover and sanctuary. What we tend to forget sometimes is how much they give us back in return. One of my favorite back yard visitors is titmice. Let me give you a few reasons why this is.
They Put You In Your Place
How many times have you snuck up on a feeding titmouse? Did you have any doubt they were NOT pleased with you? Of course not! They’ll tell you in no uncertain terms they don’t appreciate being disturbed while they’re figuring out how to get the best nut or seed from the feeder you’ve caught them on. Often, that scolding will continue long after the initial interruption occurred!
They Tell You Thanks
Yes, in their own funny way, they’ll talk to you from the trees while you’re filling a feeder to let you know how much they appreciate your hard work. Sometimes, all we hear is squawking but it’s there if you listen for it. They’ll cycle through their calls a lot of times to get your attention. Just listen. It’s there.
They Have a Sense of Humor
How else could such a small bird try to make you think they’re tough? Or when they come down on the patio and take a peanut that’s bigger than their head? If that’s not comedy, I don’t know what is!
They Choose You
They’re the quickest to hand feed and accept you into their flock. Whenever I’m trying to hand feed, they are the first ones to step up every time!
When their time on this planet is nearly up, sometimes they’ll choose you to spend that time with. They know you’ve done your best to help them while they were your guest. They trust you’ll help them make the transition beyond. This is probably the most powerful reason I love these little ones! Here is a video of one doing exactly this a few years back. He/she made an indelible mark on my soul that time and life cannot erase. God Bless them!
Tell Me YOUR Titmouse Story
I know you’ve got one! They’ve either made you laugh or you’re hand feeding them like there’s no tomorrow-LOL! Either way, leave me a comment and tell me your titmouse stories. Also, if you know somebody else who might enjoy this story, please share it with them or on social media using the buttons provided.
Hope you’re having a great summer so far!
Jeff
Connor Fischer says
Hey do you take your own photos? what lens do you use? I’m looking for a nice one with great zoom.
BirdDude says
Hey Connor,
Thanks for stopping by and commenting here! I really like your blog by the way!
Although I predominantly use my own photos, the titmouse one was one I grabbed because it captured their soul so well. Always curious and active!
Jeff