BIRD HINT: We’ve had a few people this winter lament the lack of
birds at their backyard feeders. It was serendipitous, thus, that
we received Down To Earth, a newsletter published by the Potter
County Conservation District in Coudersport.[neWLine]

In it was a list of the wild bird seed the district has for
purchase along with some things you can do to attract these
beautiful creatures to your yard.[neWLine]

“”To many, bird feeding may seem a spur-of-the-moment activity –
buy some seed, fill and hang a feeder, and voila! A yard of
grosbeaks, chickadees and titmice. Not so! Avid avian enthusiasts
research and prepare![neWLine]

“”Birds have four basic needs: shelter, a nesting place, food
and water.[neWLine]

“”While many people feed the birds, providing water is often
neglected. Clean water for drinking and bathing is a major bird
magnet in all season, but especially important in the
winter.[neWLine]

“”Birdbaths should be placed in sheltered areas, as least three
feet above the ground,”” the district says.[neWLine]

Often – especially in winter when it can be most inconvenient –
people neglect to provide a source of clean and plentiful water.
When it freezes? We guess it would be like the little bird
(Woodstock) in the Peanuts strip – a place for the birds to ice
skate![neWLine][neWLine]

TAX TIME: As much as we hate to acknowledge it, it’s getting to
be tax time.[neWLine]

The IRS has free publications on every topic you might need to
make the process as painless as possible. Publications on a variety
of tax-related topics are available by phone or the Internet at
IRS.gov.[neWLine]

Here’s how:[neWLine]

– Access the IRS Web site. Click on the Forms and Publications
resource page to find what you need. There’s a search feature you
can use if you know the topic but not the number of the form or
publication.[neWLine]

– Read Publication 910. The Guide to Free Tax Services
identifies the many IRS tax materials and services available.
You’ll also find information about accessing tax materials, filing
options, tax publications, tax education and assistance
programs.[neWLine]

– Call Toll-free. If you know the name or number of the form or
publication you need, call the toll-free Forms and Publications
telephone line at 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) to place your
order.[neWLine]

If you still can’t find the information you need, visit IRS.gov
or call the IRS toll-free customer service line at
1-800-829-1040.