Protected Finch

Every year finches migrate through my back yard, seeking shelter under the cover of green leaves. The “leaves” in this piece are shown as over 200 individually dyed and sewn folded rectangles that overlap. Like in nature, where no two leaves are identical, these rectangles vary in material, size, and color.

Some species of finch are endangered, others less so; but all of them require our protection and care. What can you do? Do not feed them within easy reach of predators; plant sunflowers; do not clean bird feeders with toxic household cleaners; and keep feeders away from your kitchen, outdoor grill, or anything that produces smoke or fumes.