Feeding Small Birds in Winter

When the snow is feet deep on the ground and the temperatures are below zero for extended periods of time during our winter months, our feathered friends who have not migrated enjoy the fresh seeds, suet and water we provide. It is a commitment as the birds become accustomed to the readily available food especially in severe winter weather.

Feeders for Wild Birds

Many of the birds in our yard live in the area all year, keeping our gardens insect and bug free during the summer months. We refill the feeder once it is empty and any seed on the ground has been eaten (unless it is hidden under the snow). We do keep the area under the feeders as clear as possible for the different varieties of birds who love to forage on the ground.

We also have specific bird feeders and food such as

• Sunflower seeds for chickadees
• Small black "grass" seed for finches
• A “mix” of seed for the others such as sparrows
• Suet for the myriad of finches and woodpeckers

Protection for Birds

The multitude of birds in the yard also attracts predatory birds like hawks and crows and surprisingly even a young bald eagle. It is advisable to have ample trees nearby for the smaller birds to find protection. A holly tree is a great sanctuary for the smaller birds as I have seen a hawk, unsuccessfully, try to fly into one chasing the sparrows.

There is not the variety of birds in the winter but we see many chickadees, sparrows, finches, flickers and blue jays and we have 2 or 3 resident robins who are having a very difficult time now with deep snow and the minus mid teen temperatures we have had for almost a week.

Bird Feeder Advice

• When installing feeders (from trees) try to hang them as far as possible from the tree trunk and high off the ground to prevent squirrels from jumping on to the feeders
• Suspend the feeders on long wires for the same reason
• Feeders should be cleaned at least monthly – use a mild soap solution and rinse and dry well
• Metal feeder trays can freeze birds feet in winter is an "urban myth"
• We hang the feeders from trees in the corners of the back yard between two high hedges allowing maximum wind and weather protection and shelter
• If space permits plant a mountain ash (for berries) and a holly tree (for nesting and protection)
• We keep up two bird baths with fresh water – difficult in freezing winter weather
• We continue (but cut back)  to feed the birds during the summer months as we have nesting birds in the yard
• Remember bird seed is an attractant for raccoons and squirrels, pine martens and bears if they are in the area

The many birds in our yard give us joy, laughter and entertainment all year round.

Links & References

• More on how to help our feathered friends
• Annas Hummingbirds - a memorable visit