There has been a lot of discussion recently about the pros and cons of baiting owls specifically, and wildlife in general, in the Ottawa area.

So I have to confess that I baited this nuthatch by placing some sunflower seeds on a post.

Not that much baiting is required. The chickadees, nuthatches, some woodpeckers
and cardinals have all lost their fear of people because of being hand-fed so often at the NCC trails.
They practically swarm anyone whom they find along the pathways.
Hikers, skiers, and bikers often stop to feed the wildlife and snap a photo.
Parents and grandparents put seed into youngsters hands or on their heads. All for a cute picture.
Even the squirrels and chipmunks will almost sit on your boots in anticipation of a handout.
All of this the result of too much baiting.

But I'll continue to take my bag of seed and peanuts to the trails for the wildlife. ;)