Winter Bird Feeding

Did you know, February is National Bird-Feeding Month? Bird Feeders and good quality bird food attract birds to your yard when their natural food sources may be in short supply or covered in deep snow in our Colorado winters. This time of year is the most crucial time to feed the birds. Most of us will need to pull the feeders or at least bring them inside each night, though, when the bears wake up in the spring.

Why so many types of bird feeders and bird food?

Different types of birds prefer different food and feeder configurations. Attracting many bird species will require multiple feeders and seed types.

For example, smaller birds with smaller beaks, such as finches, will eat nyjer seed or sunflower chips. A tube feeder with small holes or a finch sock will keep the seed from spilling from the feeder.

Larger food with a high oil content, such as sunflower and safflower seeds, will attract many other bird species. Some birds will eat from a perch so a tube feeder with larger ports is ideal, while other species prefer eating this seed from a larger platform feeder.

Flickers and woodpeckers prefer the high energy food- suet. Hanging a filled suet cage will attract them.

Other seed mixes may contain nuts and berries which provide high energy for many birds this time of year.

Deck and Patio feed is hulled seed – use this where you may not want debris of shells to drop.

It is very important to keep bird feeders clean. Snow and rain can rot feed. If you notice the thistle feeder is not being used, it is often because of spoiled nyjer seed. Thoroughly clean the feeder and refill with fresh seed.

Reward yourself with the sight and sounds of birds this winter while you provide aid for them during this tough time of year.