This chickadee was in the process of nest building. From observations of their nests in our birdhouse over the years we’ve noticed how well they like to employ dog hair in the area where the eggs are laid and the young raised. For some time now we’ve provided dog hair saved after brushing our dog then put it in a suet holder in an area that can readily be seen by the birds – and also where we have good observation so to enjoy the process. We usually put it out early in April. It’s so cute to see a chickadee with a “beard.” – Joanne and David Savage, Quispamsis