French Resident's Love for Merles Leads to Thriving Bird Feeding Station

Meet Teo Spengler, whose love for the French merle has led to a bustling bird feeding station. Witness the unique bond between this resident and the birds that call it home.

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2025 October 2 . 9:25 PM

1 min read

In this picture we can see a bird art here, on the right side we can see some text.

French Resident's Love for Merles Leads to Thriving Bird Feeding Station

Teo Spengler, a resident of Provence, France, shares a unique bond with the French merle (Turdus merula), admiring their melodious song, fierce independence, and striking glossy black plumage. Spengler has built a bird feeding station in the Pyrenees, attracting various species, with the merle being a favorite.

Spengler's daughter once witnessed a snake threatening baby robins in their nest. Spengler intervened, rescuing the birds, demonstrating their family's commitment to wildlife protection. The feeding station, made from stacked wooden spools, has provided entertainment, especially in spring, as parent birds left their young there while foraging for food.

Merles, known for their glossy black or dull black plumage, with adult males sporting a bright yellow bill and eyering, usually avoid Spengler's feeder. However, they do drink from the water dish when they think Spengler isn't watching. Spengler's favorite garden visitor, the French merle, feeds on holly berries and has a beautiful song. Over time, Spengler has come to recognize many bird species, initially knowing only robins.

Spengler's love for merles and other birds has led to the creation of a thriving feeding station in the French Basque Country. Their actions, such as rescuing baby robins, reflect a deep appreciation for the wildlife that shares their space. The feeding station continues to provide entertainment and sustenance for various bird species, with the French merle being a notable and beloved visitor.