Roy C. Smallwood 3rd - Articles

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Roy Smallwood is the owner of Kingbirdfeeders.com. Roy began this enterprise after a 26 year career as a teacher of science. His love and enjoyment of the outdoors and birding in particular is the impetus for the company. He is an active member of the Central Texas Audubon Society. He encourages everyone to participate and enjoy birding whether in the backyard or in the field. Visit www.kingbirdfeeders.com for , binoculars">http://www.kingbirdfeeders.com/...oculars.htm”\">binoculars and spotting">http://www.kingbirdfeeders.com/...otScope.htm”\">spotting scopes and happy birding!

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221

One More for the Birders
Birders are constantly looking for any advantage to assist in identification and increase the pleasure of their field experience. Every birder knows that the conditions of weather and light can make decisions difficult. Every birder knows that sometimes it is the briefest of looks that the bird affords. Every birder wants to go into the field with as good a binocular as possible. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 10/09/2008 | Nature
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British Columbia and the Northwest
We traveled to British Columbia this summer leaving behind 101 degree F temperatures and the dog days of Texas for the cool NW. Temperatures in BC ranged from 57-71 degrees F. We flew into Seattle and rented a hybrid to drive to Canada. I made no bones about my intentions to find good birding. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 10/09/2008 | Destinations
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Advanced Birding and the Spotting Scope
Most of us begin birding with a field guide and a pair of binoculars. Yet, we eventually realize that certain situations demand our acquisition of a spotting scope. It may be that we find ourselves at the wetlands and can not quite tell if we are looking at a White Faced or Glossy Ibis. Or, we spot a raptor across the canyon and can not say if it is a Red Tail or some other hawk. Or, maybe, we just would like a better look at the Black Throated Green Warbler high up in the oaks. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 17/06/2008 | Nature
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Binoculars for Kids and Youth
Children are naturally curious, inquisitive, and adventuresome. We should foster this whenever we can. One way to do so and foster a love and greater understanding of the world around us is to take them on outdoor adventures. Of course, we can nurture their zeal by providing them with tools of observation. Thus, the choice of binoculars is a gift that will serve our children well. So, what are the options? Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 03/06/2008 | Equipment
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Binoculars for Birders
With the beginning of Spring Migration it is time to consider investing in new binoculars. This is a proposition that can present itself in daunting ways. Careful consideration needs to be made whether a new birder or one who has spent some time in the field and acquired some expertise. The optics field is quite large and the number of products is considerable. How does one choose a binocular? Here are my suggestions. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 11/03/2008 | Nature
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Hummingbird Havens
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have crossed the expanse of the Gulf of Mexico and have been sited all along the Texas, Louisiana, and Florida Coasts. It is time to get ready for them in your backyard. Bluntly put, there is huge fascination for these small bundles. It is just such fascination that fuels the desire to find a way to attract hummingbirds? Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 06/03/2008 | Landscaping
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The Allure of the Field
It is getting to be that time of year when my thinking is almost always focused on getting into the field. In my neck of the woods the days alternate, at this time, between cold and overcast and clear, sunny and warming weather. Spring is but just around the corner; certain signs are all around. It is time for an outdoor adventure. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 26/02/2008 | Hobbies
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Birding in the Backyard
This past weekend in February marked the eleventh annual Great Backyard Bird Count. It gives many people a chance to stay at home and observe birds which visit their “own neck of the woods”—their backyard. And it allows the novice to participate as well as the experienced to assist scientists assess the state of the birds in their locale. It does not take a whole lot of equipment to participate in such an event; the enjoyment of such can extend a lifetime. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 19/02/2008 | Hobbies
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Planting for the Birds: Healthy Backyards
Planting for the Birds: Healthy Backyards This concept is touted by no less than the National Audubon Society. The concept is to create a yard in which one increases the food, water, shelter and nesting opportunities for wildlife while decreasing water and pesticide use. Generally, one landscapes so that lawn size is decreased, but the diversity of native, non invasive plants is expanded Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 06/02/2008 | Gardening
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Planting for the Birds: Providing Cover
Planting for the Birds: Providing cover Essential to creating an Eden to which many species of birds are attracted is cover, places where birds can hide when startled. Birds will want to check out your feeders and baths from safe havens nearby. Shrubs and trees can fill this function. Likewise, rock walls or brick piles or stacks of wood provide cover and nesting places. Read
By: Roy C. Smallwood 3rd | 15/01/2008 | Gardening