In early February I noticed my first observation of common redpolls eating suet that did not contain seeds of any type. At first it seemed to be a single bird, then a few, and has gained in popularity to where they are mobbing the suet ball today. Others in NE MN are reporting the same. It should be noted that reports of hundreds of redpolls at a single seed feeder are not unusual in the last week or so. I've not found anywhere, including in the authoritative Birds of the World species' account, that mentions suet as a food item. I'd like to document the extent of this behavior. To that end, I would appreciate receiving any reports on common redpolls eating non-seed-containing suet this winter, or in past winters, for that matter. If you noted any dates, please include them. Even approximations of when the behavior was first noted, numbers, and how the behavior progressed - or didn't - as time went on would be much appreciated. And of course the location. Replying to me individually is fine.
Footnote: I just had two feeding on peanuts, which I've also not seen before, but peanuts are not so far afield from their supposed winter diet limited to vegetable matter. Thanks! Steve Wilson Tower, MN ---- General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
