Mixed Flocks Appear

Now autumn has begun,mixed bird flocks are roaming many of the woods and backyards of the Mid-Atlantic region.These winter flocks of forest species consist of chickadees,tufted titmice and downy woodpeckers,as well as nuthatches,kinglets and brown creepers.They aren't identical flocks;there may only be a few of those species in a particular flock,depending on local habitat and other factors.
All of these mixed flocks lend a bit of excitement to backyard feeders and woodlots as the leaves begin to change and fall.They band together to help each other find food and keep watch for predators.