About Stew McKinney Jr. Expertise I have been watching birds in the Northeast United states for over 25 years.
I can help with identification concerns for species east of the Mississippi.
During the winter months I can assist with shelter and feeding questions.
Expert: Stew McKinney Jr. Date: 4/19/2003 Subject: bird hierarchy
Question We have a backyard feeder which we fill with seeds. Our customers are mainly sparrows (NYC suburb.) I lately noticed that whenever a cardinal shows up to feed, the other birds leave and allow him to eat, and he seems to be threatening to the sparrows. Are the sparrows in fear or are they showing respect?
Answer dave,
Sorry this took so long, my computer had to travel to Boston College for exams, nd I didn't get a replacement until yesterday.
Cardinals are very aggresive birds, and very territorial birds. They will not kill other birds, but thay will mess with them. A good idea is togive them their own feeder filled with stuff they like. Black oil sunflower seed is a great way. If you place a feeder with sunflower seed away from your regular feeder, hecardinals should stay away from the sparrows.
