So, Who’s Miley Jade? Let’s start with the almost obvious: Miley Jade is not a real person. She’s my artsy alter ego. You know, the kind of name that looks good on a gallery wall or sounds cool when someone says, “Oh wow, I love your work!” and I can respond without cringing at my own birth certificate. I’m Emily J.—a professional photographer, digital artist, chaos manager (aka mom of four boys), and full-time explorer of things most people consider junk. 20+ Years, One Cam

Habits, Personality & Favorite Foods If you’ve ever heard a cheerful “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call on a snowy morning, you’ve met one of the Finger Lakes’ most loyal residents. The Black-capped Chickadee may be small — but it’s bold, curious, and one of the most beloved backyard birds in Upstate New York. They stay through winter.They visit feeders daily.And they’re often the first birds to investigate something new in your yard. Here’s what makes them so special. ❄️ Chickadees

Habits, Nesting & Favorite Foods Few birds feel as hopeful as the Eastern Bluebird. That soft blue back.That rusty orange chest.That quiet perch on a fence post overlooking an open field. In the Finger Lakes, bluebirds are one of the most loved backyard species — and one of the easiest to support when you understand what they need. Here’s everything you should know. 🌎 Do Bluebirds Stay Year-Round? In the Finger Lakes, bluebirds are partial migrants . Some leave in late fall.

Habits, Migration & Favorite Foods If you’ve ever spotted a flash of brilliant orange high in a treetop near Keuka or Seneca Lake, you’ve probably seen a Baltimore Oriole. They look almost tropical.They sing rich, flute-like songs.And they only stay for part of the year. In the Finger Lakes, orioles are a true sign that summer has arrived. Here’s what you should know about them. 🌎 Orioles Are Migratory Visitors Unlike cardinals and blue jays, Baltimore Orioles do not stay ye

Habits, Personality & Favorite Foods Few birds are as instantly recognizable as the Northern Cardinal. That brilliant red against fresh snow.That clear whistled song in early spring.That flash of color in a gray winter yard. In the Finger Lakes, cardinals are year-round residents — and one of the most beloved backyard visitors. Here’s what makes them so special. 🎵 Cardinals Sing First If you hear birds singing in late winter — even before snow melts — it’s often a cardinal.

Their Habits, Personality & Favorite Foods If you’ve ever heard a loud, raspy call echoing across your yard in the Finger Lakes, chances are a blue jay was nearby. They’re bright.They’re bold.They’re opinionated. And they’re one of the most fascinating birds you’ll see year-round in Upstate New York. Let’s talk about their habits — and what they really love to eat. 🧠 Blue Jay Personality: Smart & Strategic Blue jays are members of the corvid family — which means they’re rela

A Finger Lakes Guide to Feeding Birds (Not Squirrels) If you feed birds in the Finger Lakes, you’ve probably fed squirrels too. They leap from trees.They hang upside down.They empty a feeder in one afternoon. So what about spicy birdseed?Does it actually work? Short answer: Yes — when used correctly. Here’s why. 🧠 Why Spicy Seed Works Birds and mammals react differently to capsaicin — the compound that makes peppers hot. Birds do not feel the heat. Mammals do. Squirrels, ra

What Backyard Birders in the Finger Lakes Should Know Mealworms have become one of the most popular backyard bird foods — especially in spring. Bluebirds love them.Chickadees grab them quickly.Wrens can’t resist them. But here’s something many bird lovers don’t realize: Mealworms are high in protein…But low in calcium. And during nesting season, calcium matters. Let’s break it down. 🐛 Why Birds Love Mealworms Mealworms (the larvae of darkling beetles) are: High in protein So

What to Watch For in the Finger Lakes Every spring, something incredible happens over Keuka Lake. While vineyards wake up and docks go back in, thousands of birds move through the Finger Lakes region — traveling north after long winter journeys. Some stay.Some pass through.Some rest just long enough to refuel before continuing on. If you live near Keuka Lake — or just love spending time there — spring migration is one of the most exciting times of year. Here’s what you can e