Build your bird box before March 1

Western Pennsylvania's wetlands provide critical habitat for animals and plants. Avian species such as wood ducks and hooded mergansers are directly dependent on wetlands to survive and thrive. These birds are cavity nesters and seek hollow trees or trunk cavities for protection of eggs. When there is a scarcity of this natural cover, the construction of a wood duck box can greatly facilitate propagation. Although these constructs are somewhat more prone to predators, the addition of post and con-shaped guard can help. Keep the box 4 to 5 feet above water. The box's opening should be clearly visible from water's edge, and should be in place by March 1,if possible, so as to allow dissipation of human scent (which attracts animal predators.)

Wood duck boxes can be built from several different materials so long as the size of the entrance hole and other dimensions are correct. Woodworking for Wildlife offers details for building a wood duck box.

Today's photo was taken by WPC Volunteer Photographer John M. Karian at State Game Land #130 (Pine Swamp). The area is located in the east central part of Mercer County and is a large expanse of wetlands habitat originally purchased and protected by WPC.

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Suggested Gift Idea for the Bird Lover: Birdsong IdentiFlyer

This audio bird song dictionary is perfect for either beginners or the more experienced bird watchers. Through the use of sound cards, you are able to identify birds through both visual and auditory cues. Included with the IndentiFlyer pack is a starter set of two cards featuring 20 YardBirds songs to get the birding enthuaisist started. Also included is the SongPlayer, private listening device, 3 –AAA batteries, and a IndentiFlyer Guide.

$39.00

Guess the Peregrines' Due Dates
Less than 48 hours left to guess when the peregrines at Gulf Tower and Pitt will lay and hatch their eggs. You could win an as yet to be determined exciting prize.

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