Question
Actually I think they are looking for materials to build a nest rather than looking for food.  Thanks for the tip though.

Joe

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Followup To
Question -
Hi,

I am having trouble preventing birds from taking the mulch I have around my trees.  What do you recommend?

Thanks,
Joe
Answer -
Joe,
I have the same problem as you except they scratch and dig in mine beside my sidewalk and it gets all over the sidewalk.They are probably looking for worms or insects this time of year. Their activity should be slowing down soon. If you put up a bird feeder that may help.I have a lot of customers that have birdfeeders and it does seem to help.If they aren't hungry then they won't have to dig for food. it's worth a try anyway.Hope this helps.

Answer
Joe,
Yes they like to use anything from the yard to make nests but I didn't think they layed their nests until spring.Anyway,we know they are making a big mess and that is something all of us gardeners have to live with...pests. But we also MUST have birds in our outdoor sanctuaries or else we would be overrun with insects and I would much rather have birds messing around than insects eating my plants!Have a great weekend!