Column: Be suspicious of flocking birds this winter

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • September 13, 2024

Birds of a feather flock together. Except that most don’t. From now until next spring, if you see a flock of birds, get suspicious. Few species flock, and you can often identify the flockers before seeing any field mark. The top reason birds flock together is safety. It’s easier for predators to sneak up on one bird than to sneak up on a hundred. Give flocking birds your attention over the next two months. Sparrows work the roadsides. Finches work the treetops. Waxwings work anytime, anywhere. Some worried birds gather just to flee the Maine winter. Misery loves company. ~ Bob Duchesne