September’s Best Bird Feeder Is a Tree

Did you know that September’s best bird feeder is a tree? I did not know this either, gentle reader. That is, until I read Douglas W. Tallamy’s book entitled “The Nature of Oaks.” I will share more about this book and this week’s painting shortly. But first, I want to welcome new readers to this blog! Welcome! If you’re interested in learning about the purpose of this post and blog, check out this link here.

Let’s get to it, then, shall we?

The Painting

First, here’s one of the paintings I did this week. It is inspired by a gorgeous tree located a few blocks from our house. More specifically, this tree is located on a busy street corner at the edge of what is now called “The Village District.”

On most days, if you live in or near this area, it’s likely that you drive or zip or walk right by this tree. But, it is gorgeous and worth a look or two or three. Why? First, the trunk is massive. I can’t even start to wrap my arms around it. And the roots are full of character, gnarled and loopy. And, that canopy of leaves is lush. The shade this tree provides on that busy corner is so wonderful. Especially when the hot sun is beating down these days.

This painting is 6×6 inches, painted in gouache on cold press paper. And, yes it’s for sale for $50 + shipping + taxes. See and click the link below to purchase it and make it your very own.

Why Is a Tree a Bird Feeder

Good question! I had no idea that trees in general, and oak trees in particular, provide so many treats, hiding places and secret food stashes for birds! But, in fact, that’s exactly what they do. In Doug Tallamy’s book, he describes that this month is when birds are getting ready for winter. How do they do that? They stash seeds in the craggy bark of oak trees.

So whether you provide bird seeds the by planting native plants that birds enjoy. Such as? Well, here in NC in our garden, we’re ‘feeding’ goldfinches and more with our coneflowers and black-eyed Susans right now. But maybe you are an apartment dweller or reluctant gardener and have a bird feeder with seeds.

You can be sure that the seed you provide is getting stashed right now. But don’t take my word for it. Check out page 150 of Tallamy’s book for the details. He even describes the way Blue Jay’s follow other birds and steal their stash from the oak trees! Birds imitating real life, eh?

Your Very Own Oak

One of the best features of this book is Tallamy’s description of native oaks you can plant in your own yard. Lest you think your yard is too small, think again. He includes oak trees by size. So, you may find there’s a perfect spot for a small native oak tree, also known as nature’s bird seed stasher, in your yard. Here in our small yard, we have volunteer oaks that pop up in our garden every year. We’re deciding which ones to leave and which to pull up. Stay tuned!

What About You

Did you know that oak trees are bird feeders, gentle reader? Would you consider planting one in or near your yard? If so, please do share in the comments below. Thank you for reading here today!