Fellow Birders,

Within the last 2 days, Regional Coordinators Paul Chad and Jim Dolan
have observed nesting behavior of Pine Siskins (in Lucas and
Columbiana counties).

Ethan Kistler compiled a useful map this winter showing the extent of
Pine Siskin observations this past winter.  The last update of the map
shows Pine Siskins occurring in all but 11 counties.  This scarce Ohio
breeder may nest in more counties this spring than during previous
OBBA2 years.  This is the time of year when siskins typically initiate
breeding activities (reference web link below).

If you still have Pine Siskins coming to your feeders or in areas you
frequently bird, be vigilant of pairing behaviors or other behaviors
indicative of nesting.  Courtship behavior, as described by the "Birds
of North America Online," involves a courting male circling the top of
a tree while singing and fluttering wings (dubbed the "butterfly
flight”).  The species uses a variety of materials for nest
construction.

For useful information about Pine Siskins in Ohio, access the species
account at the following link:

http://tinyurl.com/pinesiskin

Good birding!

Aaron Boone
Columbus, Ohio
614.247.6458

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