by Pat Jaquith
pat@westvalleynaturalists.org

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Thirsty birds taking advantage of a puddle in the woods 8.26.25

Birds use water much as people do: they drink it to rehydrate; they bathe in the same pool they drink from. They are seen introducing their offspring to puddles. Somehow, they seem to communicate about water sources and appear to plan a gathering there. I’ve been delighted, amazed, and delayed by coming upon a gathering of birds at their “oasis”. Read on to see some of the sights I’ve observed as I walk in natural areas.

Pine Siskins, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Juncos, and Red Crossbills shared this puddle frequently in late summer 2025. As the water evaporated, birds still came to drink from the impressions deer hooves had left in the mud that still held a few tablespoons of water.

A Junco juvenile and an adult would stay at the edge of the puddle to drink before wading in for a good soak and vigorous bath. 8.24.26

On 8.24.26 I parked near this puddle prepared to go for a walk. I opened the back door to get my backpack that held my water; before I shut the door, led by a pair of Townsend’s Solitaires, a flock of more than a dozen robins of varying ages, several juncos, a couple Yellow-rumped Warblers, and two Red-breasted Nuthatches arrived eager to drink and bathe. Two Canada Jays and a Hairy Woodpecker joined the excitement, but they didn’t get into the water during the 20 minutes that I stayed.

I’ve come upon Female and male Western Tanagers, Swainson’s Thrushes, Canada Jays and more out in the woodlands of the West Valley enjoying the water that Nature provided. Butterflies and moths come and go, as do squirrels. The only disagreement I have recorded is that of the White-breasted Nuthatch that was thoroughly annoyed by a hornet! It is such a pleasure to find many species sharing the resources peacefully. Soon after a good rain that has filled puddles in the pathways is my favorite time to go for a walk!