ACCORDING TO RON PITTAWAY of the Ontario Field Ornithologists there is a good chance of crossbills irrupting south this season. Pittaway’s report says that both White-winged and Red Crossbills wandered widely this summer, and that cone crops are poor in the Atlantic Provinces and only fair to moderate in Western Canada this year.

SONGBIRD ESSENTIALS of Mexico, Missouri has acquired Eklunds. Many are familiar with that company’s Mad Bluebird® image that can be found on mugs, T-shirts, sun catchers, flags and cards. All products presently marketed by Eklunds will be continued. In addition several Mad Bluebird® items (pillow - sun catchers - puzzles) that have not been readily available recently will once again be offered as soon as new inventory of these products arrives.

After eight years with Birding Business, Mitch Whitten is stepping down as editor. Whitten has been a driving force for the magazine, giving many new writers a chance to share their voice in the industry and showcasing new and innovative product in the backyard.

Whitten’s other duties as the Executive Director of Integrated Marketing for Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas have greatly increased, allowing less time for him to devote his energy and drive to the magazine. He will be greatly missed by all who worked with him on Birding Business.