Val Cunningham

Readers ask: How do robins fare in Minnesota winters? Can owls swivel their heads all the way around? What birdseed can they use that doesn't harm the lawn?

Look for round knobs on tall plant stems for signs that birds have been visiting.

Budgies have a population problem after some pandemic pet purchases were later regretted. Do your research before buying these birds, which are fairly high-maintenance.

Check radar maps to learn your best chances for seeing spring and fall migrants.

Readers write: Do bird feeders really help birds? Is there such a thing as too many goldfinches?

Many kinds of birds eat cannabis seeds, and it may affect them mentally and physically, like humans. Plus: when to take down your hummingbird feeders.

Plus cardinals and pea vines, owl migration, loons in winter and more.

Young birds are still learning about their world and might show up in odd places as they explore.

Color serves birds in many ways, some of them invisible to humans. Beginning millions of years ago, birds began evolving into a huge variety of species.

The issue of birds having emotions has been controversial, but many say they do mourn the loss of a partner.