Finally Spring has arrived. We had a few weeks of stops and starts but it's finally here and with it all the wonderful colors and newness of life. Temperatures are great for hiking and birding and spending time outdoors. Get out and about before the heat and humidity of summer desend upon us.

What to do if you encounter a baby bird: If you can locate the nest nearby, the best thing to do is simply place the nestling back in the nest. If you cannot locate the nest, leave the nestling where you found it or move it to a shaded area. The parents will come back. Don't worry, your scent won't deter the parents.

It's also time to clean out bird feeders and bird baths. Weekly maintenance should occur during always to avoid transfer of disease from birds who gather to feed. A bleach solution of 1:10, a scrub brush and drying in the sun should take care of it easily.

Hummingbirds are also passing through and returning to your yards. Make sure feeders are FREE of black mold, nectar is fresh and PLEASE NO RED DYE or any additives.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you encounter a sick bird please report it to the link below. If you encounter an injured bird please contact your nearest rehabber. Please continue weekly maintenaince on your seed feeders. Anytime birds artificially gather together to feed there is always the chance of transmission of disease so cleanliness is essential. If you encounter sick or dead birds here's the link to TWRA at: Sick Birds