Claysmom, perhaps your son would be interested in making his property a Certified Wildlife Habitat? This is easier than most people might think. You just need to provide food, shelter and water for various types of animals. You can Google it and read all about the requirements online, and even print out an application for the official certification. Nicki's city yard is certified, so even those without rural property can qualify. I encourage everyone who is interested to check it out. (If I can managed to stay on the computer long enough, I'll see if I can find the link, but I'm having some unanticipated difficulties from my foot surgery, and won't be here very long.) Glad you guys enjoyed seeing this old post pop up again. I do love these birds, and am happy it was of interest to you. Marcia

Hi ribs1, It's a gazebo style feeder, made of metal or aluminum most-likely that I bought at Menards. I feed strictly hulled sunflower seeds, albeit they are very expensive, but there is no waste whatsoever. I also have a suet feeder underneath and about 5' away from it, that I built, and holds two blocks. So far the Red-headed haven't ventured to it, but I bet they will, given enough time. Dax

Thanks guys. When I lived in Portland, OR one of the reasons my at that time girlfriend wished to return to the mid-west (she being from Indiana) was because she remembered all so well the chitter-chatter and abundance of birds. That was some time ago though. Dax

A very enjoyable read for anyone, especially people like us who know a thing or two about herpetology. Thank you very much for sharing that piece. Scott