Prepare Birds for Winter

As winter settles in, the vibrant colors of Blue Jays, Red-Breasted Nuthatches, and Northern Cardinals bring life to an otherwise dull landscape. But with snow covering natural food sources and insects disappearing, birds face a tough challenge finding enough to eat. By providing food, water, and shelter, you can help your feathered friends survive—and even thrive—through the cold months.

Why Feed Birds in Winter?

Winter is one of the most energetically demanding seasons for birds. They need extra calories to maintain body heat, yet natural seeds and insects become scarce. Feeding birds not only helps them endure harsh conditions but also brings beauty and activity to your backyard. Keeping feeders up into spring can even support migrating species on their long journeys north.

Top Tips for Winter Bird Feeding

1. Choose the Right Feeders

• Tube Feeders: Perfect for black oil sunflower, mixed seed, safflower, or peanuts. These attract chickadees, nuthatches, goldfinches, and finches.
• Hopper Feeders: Great for safflower, sunflower seeds, or cracked corn. They draw larger birds like cardinals, jays, and red-winged blackbirds.
• Suet Feeders: Suet is a high-energy food loved by woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches.

Avoid placing seed directly on the ground—it attracts deer and other unwanted guests. Instead, opt for mess-free seed blends and consider fencing feeders to keep wildlife out.

2. Provide Fresh Water

Water is just as critical as food. When natural sources freeze, birds struggle to stay hydrated. Use a sturdy birdbath in a sunny spot or invest in a heated birdbath to keep water accessible. Refresh water every other day and clean baths with a 9:1 water-to-vinegar solution.

3. Keep Feeders Clean

Dirty feeders can spread disease. Clean them every two weeks with a solution of 9 parts water to 1 part bleach, scrub thoroughly, and dry before refilling.

4. Offer High-Calorie Foods

Winter birds need quick energy. Stock feeders with:

• Sunflower seeds
• Peanuts
• Suet cakes
• Mealworms
• You can also offer fruits like apples, grapes, cherries, and oranges (asy-to-eat slices)

5. Create Shelter

Brush piles and bird boxes provide safe roosting spots during storms. Nest boxes can double as winter shelters.

Extra Tips for Success

• Fill feeders daily, ideally in late afternoon, to give birds an energy boost before nightfall.
• Spread feeders around at different heights for safety and variety.
• Brush snow and ice off feeders after storms.
• Leave seed-bearing plants and leaf litter in your garden for natural food sources.

Helping birds through winter is rewarding—for them and for you. With a little effort, you’ll enjoy a lively backyard full of color and song all season long.