Follow the Leader!

JANUARY 7 | By IRVINE NATURALIST SARA MILLS

One of my favorite birds has always been the chickadee. Carolina, black-capped, mountain, you name it; I can’t help but chuckle at their acrobatic tricks and seemingly boisterous temperament.

These tiny creatures are quite the leaders, especially during these winter months. As one walks through the forest during these cold times you may notice the stillness and silence, until you come across a winter feeding flock! From out of nowhere you may be surrounded by chickadees, nuthatches, creepers, small woodpeckers and tufted titmice. These large groups of birds are essentially feeding guilds.  Chickadees and titmice tend to be the leaders of these groups, and the followers are usually the woodpeckers, nuthatches and creepers.

Why would a bird be so peace-loving during a time when food is not easily found? Although there are several theories, some are more obvious than others. More birds means more eyes, and more eyes can find more food and more predators. 

There is a lot more to the story, as any avid birder will explain, such as an unpleasant attitude towards other chickadee flocks, and a hierarchy within the group. Specifics aside, we can learn a little something from the chickadee…when times are tough put your differences aside, and don’t underestimate the smallest of creatures!