lo, I was wondering if you could help me with this question. For several winters now I have been observing various birds feasting on poison ivy berries on miserable, icy days. I don't notice much activity on these plants on ordinary, sunny or dry days. My question is: Is there something that happens when ice coats the berries that makes them more palatable or softer? OR, my latest thought... Is it possible that the urushiol in the berries prevents them from freezing and therefore the birds choose them over holly berries, etc.? I'm just curious about why I see so many great birds in the poison ivy that hangs on an Ash tree in my front yard on the most miserable, cold, icy/sleet/rainy days. Thanks for any help you can give me!
Jady |
