By Barbara Pleasant | 20 December 2018
Feeding birds in winter is a rewarding activity, but for newcomers, it can come with a few challenges. A dear friend of mine recently started feeding winter birds, and this has brought back memories of both the joys and the mistakes that come with it. Watching birds feed outside your window can bring a cozy feeling to your home, but there are some key things to consider for the safety and well-being of the birds. With 30 years of bird-feeding experience, here are my top 10 tips to help make feeding winter birds enjoyable for both you and the birds.
1. Start with Fast Food
An open tray feeder filled with sunflower seeds is a great way to quickly attract a variety of birds. Sunflower seeds are a favorite among many species and are easy for birds to access, especially in an open tray feeder. These feeders also give birds a quick getaway if they feel threatened, making them a popular choice for backyard birds.
2. Offer Ground Feeders
Some birds, like sparrows, doves, and juncos, prefer feeding on the ground. If you have these birds in your area, scatter mixed grain bird feed, such as cracked corn and millet, directly on the ground. These birds feel safer foraging below, away from the higher, more exposed feeders.
3. Feed Little and Often
Instead of overloading feeders with large amounts of food, put out small portions regularly. Birds prefer fresh, dry seeds, and they’ll often reject anything that’s become moldy due to rain. If you notice fewer birds visiting, check for predators neary, such as hawks, which may scare them away.
4. Learn the Birds You’re Feeding
Getting familiar with the bird species that frequent your area will enhance your bird-watching experience. Invest in a good bird book specific to your region and make note of the species you see. For example, in my area of the Eastern US, common winter visitors include chickadees, cardinals, nuthatches, and woodpeckers.
5. Place Feeders Strategically
For the best viewing experience, place your feeders where you can watch birds from comfortable indoor spots. However, keep in mind that birds need cover and escape routes. Ideally, feeders should be near trees or bushes where birds can safely wait before coming to feed.
6. Prevent Window Collisions
Window collisions can be deadly for birds. Birds often fly into windows because they see distant trees or plants through the glass. To reduce the risk, consider applying gel stickers to windows or placing indoor plants near the glass. This creates visual barriers that prevent birds from crashing into the glass.
7. Find the Best Feeding Spots
Birds tend to favor areas with nearby cover, such as trees and shrubs, where they can safely eat or wait their turn. In my own garden, I’ve found that placing feeders near a small dogwood tree and evergreen shrubs works best for attracting birds.
8. Pay Attention to Bird Calls
Birds have a remarkable ability to communicate, and they may let you know when their feeders are empty. Listen for their calls—they may chirp to remind you to refill the feeder. Over time, you’ll start to recognize the sounds birds make when they’re happy or hungry.
9. Provide Winter Fuel
During cold and snowy weather, birds need extra energy to survive. Offer high-fat foods like suet, fat balls, or homemade bird cakes. Additionally, adding finely ground eggshells to suet can help provide essential calcium, which some birds may lack due to a decline in their natural food sources, like snails.
10. Maintain Feeder Hygiene
Regularly clean your bird feeders to prevent the spread of diseases. Moldy seeds should be discarded, and feeders should be cleaned to avoid contamination. Additionally, make sure to store bird food in areas where pests like rodents and raccoons can’t access it. In areas with bears, it’s important to stop feeding birds once bears come out of hibernation in the spring to avoid attracting them.
By following these tips, you’ll create a safe, enjoyable feeding environment for winter birds while enriching your own experience as a bird watcher. Happy bird feeding!