The weekly bird column that appears in our local newspaper stated yesterday that as a result of the extreme prolonged cold weather we've experienced this winter, birds that have in the past migrated but of late years many of which have hung around rather than flying off to more moderate climes, may have perished in some significant numbers.

It also made reference to fewer birds now at local feeding stations, but that in a few weeks' time migrating birds will begin their circuit back to this area and beyond; that up to 200 species will in fact nest here and raise their young before heading off further afield. As a result we're likely to see a proliferation of birds, some of them seldom-seen, if we're fortunate enough.

We have seen, since the arrival finally of milder temperatures, fewer birds at our own feeders. It seems strange that when the days are crackling-cold, there are many more birds taking refuge and feeding than when the weather relents. We can always depend on the doves, however to keep arriving, seating themselves calmly, resting after they've taken what they need of the seed offerings.

The cardinals are less often seen now, but do occasionally grace us with their brilliant presence. The fidgety juncos, nuthatches and chickadees and a variety of sparrows like the redpolls are no longer seen in numbers and as frequently but they will no doubt return, along with others we're less accustomed to seeing. As well as the occasional hairy or downy woodpecker.

Bringing them comfort brings to us a feeling of serenity in the hope that the little we're able to do for area birds represents a needed assist to bring them through our harsh, and this year particularly so, winters.