Beneath the Bird Feeder is a photographic project showcasing the feathered (and furred) visitors to my backyard. Using a DSLR camera trap positioned beneath my bird feeder, I documented their activities daily during the winter months of 2020–2022. This project offers a glimpse into species behavior while presenting a fresh perspective on a beloved pastime: feeding the birds.

Ethical considerations were central to this work. In the Catskill Mountains, hanging a bird feeder during warmer months is not advisable, as it attracts curious and hungry neighbors—namely, black bears. To minimize risk, I only hung the feeder in winter, placed it in a tree away from house windows, and took steps to prevent disease transmission. Regular maintenance included raking and turning the soil beneath the feeder, rotating its position, periodically letting it remain empty, and disinfecting it with a diluted bleach solution.

This project prompted me to reflect on many questions such as how does a bird feeder influence the surrounding ecosystem?

By night, deer mice busily gathered spilled seeds, caching them in a nearby stone wall. They were often assisted by Northern short-tailed shrews—adorable yet venomous companions. By day, an assortment of raiders, from birds to squirrels, plundered these hidden treasures.

Behavioral patterns continually fascinated me: dark-eyed juncos reliably arrived at the crack of dawn, while Northern cardinals graced the feeder at dusk. I even came to recognize regulars, including a deer mouse with a notched ear, affectionately named “Notches.”

Beneath the Bird Feeder aims to inspire others to explore their backyards and look closer at so-called “common” species, which are every bit as extraordinary as their exotic counterparts.