I believe that most birds that have no tail have had a close encounter with 
a predator. I think that most birds drop feathers in a sequence and not all 
at the same time.

I have a Tufted Titmouse with no tail visiting my feeders. In an effort to 
limit House Sparrows and House Finches from my feeders I have been 
experimenting with different openings (shape and angle). The Tufted 
Titmouse without a tail cannot access feeders that Titmice with tails can 
access. No tail limits this birds agility.

Having the pleasure of a Harris's Sparrow I have been scattering feed on 
the ground at its preferred feeding area. I now have a flock of 30+ 
cowbirds feeding there. Even as it busts a retirees bird feeding budget I 
will remain thankful for the Harris's.

                    Tom Guisinger
                    Lancaster, Oh

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