It`s a great year for double-scratchers such as Fox Sparrows. Up to 8 were at my feeders in Toronto and 3 at Rotary Park in Ajax. Double-scratchers are birds that use their large feet together to kick backwards in order to expose seeds and insects. In the video Fox Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos and White-throated Sparrows kick back snow and fallen leaves in their search for seeds around the feeders. Toronto on 11 November 2019.

 

VIDEO Double-scratchers - Fox Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco and White-throated Sparrow - in Toronto on 11 November 2019

Fox Sparrow double-scratching in Toronto on 11 November 2019.

 

Fox Sparrow double-scratching in the snow in Toronto on 11 November 2019.

 

Double-scratching at its peak were 8 Fox Sparrows, 30 Dark-eyed Juncos and 4 White-throated Sparrows. Toronto on 11 November 2019

 

Dark-eyed Junco feeding on goldenrod seeds. Woody plants provide cover and seeds for winter birds. Toronto on 11 November 2019