Poke Berries For The Birds

Our newly discovered and frequently noticed Gray Catbird has been dining on the Poke Berries and hiding in the Black Willows out front. He has totally cleared most of the berries from the plants.

We have also seen the Brown Thrasher, Eastern Bluebirds, and Tufted Titmouse on the Poke Berries by our office window. It's been a delight to see them fed by such a simple wild plant that takes care of itself.

The deer have come by to nibble on the young leaves which the fawns seem to be very fond of. I love to discover that what some calls weeds are wild wonders to me. This plant is considered toxic although young leaves have been used for salads. Get more information on poke weed.

Visit Cornell's website to learn more about catbirds and listen to their song which is how they got their name.