Why does my cat ignore the dive-bombing scrub-jays?
DEAR JOAN >>
I was very interested in the letter about the bird strafing the cat a few days ago. The same thing is happening in our yard except for some interesting dynamics.
We have an indoor/ outdoor stray that we take care of (can’t be indoors due to allergies) who seems to have a love/ hate relationship with the jays. Because the birds started harassing him non-stop, we’ve created several spots — pads under chairs, behind walls and barriers, etc. — in the backyard where he can hide from the birds.
However, at certain times he will strut (yes, strut) right out to the middle of the lawn, lie down with haunches raised, tail twitching, and proceed to “ignore” the birds strafing him.
What gives? He never pounces or jumps at the birds. He either watches them or pretends not to watch them. He might even start grooming himself to say, “See how nonchalant I am about this? I don’t care.”
It also seems like the birds are looking for him when he’s not around. It almost reminds me of some type of game they play, and sometimes it’s like watching a Sylvester and Tweety Bird cartoon.
I would be interested in hearing your thoughts on the cat and bird psychology of this. — Maria T., Dublin
DEAR MARIA >>
Although cats are credited with helping diminish the songbird populations of the world, the truth is, they’d rather hunt mice, rats and reptiles than take on birds. That doesn’t mean they don’t catch a fair number, but it’s not as easy as we might think.
It requires them to stalk their prey, lie in wait for an opportune moment, and then pounce with lightning speed. That can be a lot of work only to have the bird take flight in the nick of time.
I’m going to guess that your cat knows just how tough it is and, as the birds are well aware of his existence, he can’t use the element of surprise. His posture is one of hunting, so it seems he’s biding his time.
He also is smart enough to know the diving, squawking jays are not that much of a threat to him, so he ignores them. Your cat grooming himself in the face of attack is an indication that he feels completely comfortable — and supremely does not give a darn.
The birds, however, are not as comfortable with the situation. They recognize your cat as a dangerous predator, especially to very young and very old birds. His mere presence puts them on alert.
As long as the birds maintain their attacks, it’s doubtful your cat will respond, although it’s important to note that cats are opportunistic hunters and if presented with easy prey, they will take it.
DEAR JOAN >>
According to your column, hummingbirds are not very friendly with other hummingbirds or birds in general, yet I have tiny, black hummingbirds acting as wingmen for our scrub-jay friends. If you hear the chirping of a hummingbird, you know the jay isn’t far away. Then, they leave together. What’s with this? — Jack Svirsky, Bay Area
DEAR JACK >>
You’ve heard the admonishment to keep your friends close and your enemies closer? That’s what the hummers are doing. Jays are hummingbird predators. The chirping is an alarm they sound when they see the jays, and the escort is an attempt to drive the jay away.