July is prime birdwatching time

Many bird species soar the skies of northcentral Pennsylvania over the summer months.

According to Dan Brauning, a bird expert and section supervisor for the Pa. Game Commission, there are viewing opportunities for such crowd favorites as bluebirds, great blue herons, migrating ducks, Baltimore orioles, scarlet tanagers and wood thrushes.

"A sharp eye and good pair of binoculars are all that's needed, combined with a little knowledge of where to look," Braunig said.

Many songbirds arrive in Pennsylvania from Central and South America for a brief summer breeding season, while others pass through on the way to territories further north, he added.

Most species can first be identified by their songs, even before they're seen, Braunig advised.

"An ability to recognize bird songs is very helpful now that leaves are fully blossomed," he said. "By July, birds are more easily heard than seen."

Property owners can best help birds by planting good natural habitat, such as native wildflowers, shrubs and trees. Flowers, such as columbine and salvia, are great for hummingbirds.

In the northcentral Pennsylvania region, homeowners are discouraged from summertime bird feeding, since the practice often attracts bears that may become a nuisance.