Lyric discussion by doodad 

Cover art for Thugs lyrics by Tragically Hip, The

Payne, that sounds like an entirely different song altogether.

As for the birds around the feeder part. I see this simply as a glimpse into the mind of a "thug" who does a lot of "rolling." Basically, a cat, who would normally chase birds one at a time on opportunity, will, when they are gathering and are distracted, will get closer to his prey by seeming disinterested.

This is a basic passive, offensive move. Get closer to the object of your desire by seeming to be disinterested.