Over the course of winter, birds eat up to two pounds of seed to maintain a body temperature of 100F. By providing birds with a supplemental source of food, they are able to spend more time protecting themselves and their offspring from predators, rather than on foraging.
Seeds come in many different varieties, including: no mess, mixed, and mammal mixes. A "no mess" mix means there are no shells or hulls on the seed. This prevents the surrounding area from becoming cluttered with seed waste.
"Mixed" seed usually contains three or four types of seeds in one package. By providing this type of food, more species of birds will feed in the same area.
A "mammal mix" is one that contains products such as corn and nuts to attract squirrels and other mammals to a feeder that seperate from the higher priced bird food. If using this method to deter other animals from eating bird seeds, be sure not to place the two feeders so far apart that the temptation to eat one or the other is not present.
During the cold winter months, birds are constantly searching for food sources to sustain themselves during this difficult time of the year. Depending on the species of bird that is sought for your garden, the type of food and materials needed vary.
To attract a broad variety of birds, offer several different types of food located at various heights above the ground, as well as a safe water source. There are several styles of bird baths available that prevent water from freezing, which can add a focal feature to your winter garden. Along with water, most birds that remain in cooler regions during the winter rely on seeds and/or suet to survive.
Niger Seed
The favorite of Goldfinches, Nyger seed is often dispensed in birdfeeders that have tiny holes especially designed for these small seeds. Although this is one of the more expensive types of bird seed, the reward of seeing dozens of tiny yellow birds in your yard on a cold winter day surpasses any monetary value.
Suet
Woodpeckers and other birds enjoy Suet, which is a solid fat rendered from venison and beef. This high energy food is the most economical choice for attracting birds, costing around $1. Suet also attrats other mammals, such as squirrels, so be sure to use feeders that have preventative grids. These keep squirrels and other mammals away from the Suet cake.
Millet
To attact birds such as Sparrows, Juncos, Mourning Doves, Indigo Buntings, and Dickcissel, Millet is the least expensive seed to use. Simply spread this seed on the ground or in a feeder tray to provide these birds with adequate food for the winter during their migration.
Black Oil Sunflower Seed
Sunflower seeds are enjoyed by a vast majority of birds, which makes it a good choice when attempting to view more than one species. Gold Finches, Purple Finches, Woodpeckers, Cardinals, Titmice, Nuthatches, and many others can be viewed feasting on Black Oil Sunflower seeds. To protect these seeds from other animals, it is best to use a hanging birdfeeder, rather than a feeder tray. If available, hulled sunflower seeds are preferred by most bird watchers because they reduce the amount fo waste found in and around the feeding area.
Peanuts
Titmice, Starlings, and Woodpeckers enjoy this food for its rich oil and protein content. As with sunflower seeds, shelled peanuts reduce the amount of waste found near the feeder.
Rasins, Currants, and Other Fruit
To Bluebirds, Catbirds, Wood Thrushes, Cedar Waxwings, and Mockingbirds, fruit is nearly irrestible due to its sugary taste and high energy provision. Fruit can be offered by placing cut pieces on a plate or feeder tray that is located in a quiet area near a water source. These birds also enjoy nesting in fruit trees and bushes, so to attract them year-round, try planting a few fruit-bearing trees and shrubs.
When birdwatching in winter, it is important to dress warmly and be preaperd for sudden weather changes. By dressing in layers and bringing something warm to drink, winter birding can be a very enjoyable experience. Winter birding at home provides something to focus on aside from the chill in the air. Try to have a pair of binoculars nearby in order to view these beautiful birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them, and always remember to keep your feeders full to attract birds to your yard on a regular basis. By doing this, you will find that the same families return year after year, greeting you with their heart-warming songs.
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Sharay Parkinson - As a child, I always loved to garden, but I never planned to make a living doing this until I realized how gratifying it is to cultivate ...
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