When winter has left trees barren and daylight hours are few,
birds still fill our suburban landscapes. We marvel at the
resourcefulness of wild birds as they search out food and
warmth through the long winter months.
We can provide these birds with food, cover, roosting areas,
and nesting spots by planting native seed and berry-producing
trees, shrubs, and vines. Should we also set out feeders?
Experts disagree as to whether backyard bird feeding makes a
significant difference for whole bird populations, but for the
individual birds in your own backyard, feeding certainly can
help. Winter feeding also gives you a chance to observe wild
birds at close range.
When to feed—Feed more often at times of peak energy
demand, such as during temperature extremes, nesting season,
migration, and in late winter or early spring, when natural
seed sources are depleted.
Where to feed—Birds are most likely to eat where they
feel safe. Make sure that there is nearby cover to which birds
can quickly escape from predators, such as free-roaming cats.
Place ground-level feeders in spots where predators cannot hide
easily, and set up a loose mesh fence around the feeder. If the
feeders are near a window, alter the appearance of the glass to
help reduce window collisions. Try covering windows with a fine
plastic garden netting, placing hawk silhouettes about four
inches apart on the outside of the window, or painting a scene
on the window's exterior with soap. Many birds will feed at
more than one level, but they do have their preferences.
- Ground level: mourning doves, sparrows, towhees,
juncos
- Table level: cardinals, finches, and jays Hanging
feeders: titmice, goldfinches, chickadees
- Tree trunks: woodpeckers, nuthatches, wrens
Selecting a feeder—Plastic, steel, or glass feeders
are best because they are easy to clean. Feeders with porous
surfaces, such as wood or clay, can be difficult to clean and
may grow dangerous algae and fungi. Smaller feeders empty out
more quickly, so there's less chance of wet, spoiled seeds.
Rain can be a problem, so make sure the feeder has drainage
holes, and consider placing a plastic dome on top.
Proper maintenance—Regular upkeep is necessary to
keep your feeder free from contamination by disease-causing
bacteria.
- Set up more than one feeder and allow ample space between
feeders.
- Choose feeders that have no sharp edges or points. To
help keep food cleaner, use feeders that allow birds to perch
away from the food.
- Clean feeders often. Immerse them in a 5–10 percent
solution of chlorine bleach and warm water for two or three
minutes. Scrub with a stiff brush or a scouring pad, rinse
thoroughly with clean water, and dry completely before
refilling. Clean feeders designed for ground-feeding birds
every two days.
- Rake up spilled seeds, hulls, and feces at least once a
week.
- Keep seed dry, free of mold, and safe from squirrels by
storing it in a metal can with a tight-fitting lid, such as a
clean garbage can. Discard damp seed.
- In wet weather, put out only enough seed to last several
hours.
- If you notice dead birds or obviously sick birds (they're
less active and less alert) near your feeding station, stop
feeding immediately. Discard all seed; then clean and
disinfect all feeders and the ground below them. Wait a week
before resuming feeding.
Water—Birds need water year-round for drinking and
bathing. Set up at least one birdbath. The surface should be
easy to clean, and there should be a gently sloping shallow
end. Place the birdbath away from the feeders to keep the water
from being contaminated. Rinse the birdbath daily before
refilling it, and clean it once a week, using a 5–10 percent
solution of chlorine bleach. You can use a birdbath heater that
has a built-in thermostat to warm up the water just enough to
keep it from freezing. Never add antifreeze or other chemicals
to the water.
In your absence—Keep your feeding schedule
consistent, but don't worry if you must stop feeding
briefly—while traveling, for example. Wild birds will find
other food in your absence—especially if they live in suburban
areas, where other bird feeders are just a short flight away.
If you live in a rural or isolated area, however, try to
arrange to have a neighbor maintain the feeders in your
absence, just as you would have someone look after your pets or
houseplants.
Providing food for wild birds will help the winter pass more
comfortably for them, while adding interest and activity to
your winter days. Come spring, as the nesting season unfolds,
you'll have the added pleasure of recognizing many of the birds
as individuals.
Excerpted and adapted from The HSUS's brochure,
Backyard Feeding of Wild Birds.
