Date: 10/23/25 8:47 am From: <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> Subject: Re: Sparrow wave in Sunnymede this morning
Thank you for sharing your observations on not only the birds but the warblers feeding on Poison Ivy Berries. Too many people keep this vine eradicated from their yards but there are 61 Species of wildlife (55 bird species and 6 mammal species) that depend on the berries for survival. The fat content in these berries helps them get through difficult survival times and are important to provide a food source diversity in your yards. Vines like Poison Ivy, Virginia Creeper, Green Briar, and Grape are critical soft mast food items that should be in your native plant yard mix. Only 10 - 15% of the population is extremely allergic to poison ivy and poison oak. To have it in your yard does not mean that you have to embrace or handle it, just let it produce the berries that are excellent for wildlife. An added benefit is that in the Fall its leaves have a beautiful red color.
Don't just eliminate it just because of the name and populace stigma. Be glad that your yard has another native plant that is a valuable habitat element and helps our birds survive.
Jerry Wayne Davis
Hot Springs, AR
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From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Thursday, October 23, 2025 7:23 AM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Sparrow wave in Sunnymede this morning
I was overwhelmed by the numbers of sparrows this morning in Sunnymede. I counted 70+ but there were a lot more. I kept flushing them everywhere. At least 6 species including FOS juncos. Other FOS included sapsuckers and kinglets. eBird list: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280927741
Also, there was a wave of at least 20 Yellow-rumped Warblers, many feasting on Poison Ivy berries.
