It isn’t really autumn until the juncos return. I love these little birds. With their black hoods and gray bellies, they remind me of little monks and nuns. And of course, they return every year religiously (sorry about that). When they arrived this year, it got me to thinking about migratory birds, and how they seem to know where to find the best food sources. Do you suppose there’s an avian equivalent of a Fodor’s Guide? I wondered what kind of review the SmorgasBIRD would get! I could only imagine…

BIG PEG’S SMORGASBIRD: Latitude 41.07N, Longitude 74.08W

This is a must stop for all travelers along the Eastern Corridor. It features an impressive variety of seeds, nuts, berries and fruit. There are plenty of locals hanging about, which testifies to the quality of the fare. Nestled in a combination deciduous and coniferous forest, there are plenty of perches available, with multiple feeders well spaced for maximum dining room. Even when there is a wait, the turnaround is quite rapid. Every year, the area is expanded to offer additional choices. The winter offerings are particularly succulent, featuring a large assortment of suet-based menu items. For the early bird, there is nothing better than breakfast at Big Peg’s. Every day, promptly at sunrise, the resident Food Goddess appears with a container of fresh mealy worms. These go fast, so you must be alert and ready to dive in.

There are always multiple sources of fresh water on site, for both drinking and (for the less modest among you) bathing. The spas are well heated even on the coldest of days. The décor is a bit ornate, but the bucolic atmosphere more than makes up for the kitsch. Of course, if garden gnomes, gargoyles and fairies appeal to you, then this might be the place. At least it’s “family-friendly”, since there are none of those naked Greek statues the pigeons are so fond of.

Big Peg’s also offers entertainment. The patrons delight in observing the local squirrels and chipmunks taunt the two captive cats found enclosed behind a glass door. They sit there starring out at the local fauna, and it’s very amusing to watch their visible frustration at not being able to reach the guests. Sometimes, a brave bird will try its luck at this game, but usually only after consuming too much fermented fruit.

One word of caution: the regulars are very territorial, so try to remember you are a visitor, and respect the local customs. The occasional visit from the local gang, the Hell’s Turkeys, often requires discretion, rather than valor.

RATING: Four Feathers.