56 birdsandblooms.com SEPTEMBER EXTRA 2019
QI discovered this newly made nest while
prepping my fall garden. What bird nests this
late in the year? Anna Perea LOVELAND, COLORADOASK THE EXPERTS
Kenn and Kimberly: You’re right, it’s an uncommon time
of year for nest-building, as well as an unusual location!
In your area of Colorado, the builder is most likely a
house sparrow. While these enterprising little
birds usually place their nests inside holes in
trees or structures, they’ll sometimes put
them in more open places like this spot
on your tractor. They also build nests
throughout the year. We can’t be sure
from the photo, but it’s possible this
nest wasn’t made by a bird. It could be
the work of some small mammal, maybe
a mouse or one of the native wood rats.Q What is this flower?
We’ve been guessing on
how to care for it.
Larry Buck OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN
Melinda: It looks like you are providing
excellent care for your desert rose. The
swollen base and thick fleshy leaves help
this succulent thrive in the semiarid
climate of eastern Africa and the Arabian
Peninsula. With proper care, your plant
can eventually grow 5 feet tall and 3 feet
wide. Grow desert rose in full sun and
well-draining soil outdoors in the summer.
Water thoroughly and as often as needed
during the warm sunny months. Consider
watering it a bit more to encourage a
larger swollen base. Use one or two
applications of a balanced fertilizer in
spring and early summer, and move the
plant indoors when temperatures start
dropping below 55 degrees. Place it in a
cool, bright location indoors for winter,
and decrease watering frequency.FALL CHICKS Attract late-season nesters by planting fall-blooming flowers, native trees
and shrubs. It’s very important for fledglings to have shelter as they learn to fly. Be sure
to keep your birdbath out, too—young birds love to splash around in fresh water!
Q Can you identify this bird?
(^) Christine Ramey SPRINGFIELD, GEORGIA
Kenn and Kimberly: This is a northern mockingbird, so
named because other species in this group live farther
south in the tropics. Even partially hidden by leaves, it’s
recognizable by the overall pale gray look, thin black bill
and the distinct pattern of white on the tips and edges of
certain wing feathers. Mockingbirds are fairly common
year-round in Georgia but they often avoid coming to
feeders. You’re lucky to have this one as a visitor!
BIRDHOUSE: JACK THOMAS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO