Although I’ve always been an animal lover, my appreciation for birds has grown with time. I remember watching my grandfather care for the wild birds on his property as a child, not fully understanding his fascination. Only years after he passed did I start to share his interest. Now, when I watch the birds happily emptying my feeders, I think of him doing the same, smiling at the joy (and cost!) of this hobby that seems to capture mostly adults.
Standing at my back door each morning, I delight in watching American Goldfinches, Evening Grosbeaks, Blue Jays, and Hairy Woodpeckers. I’d love to list every visitor—Cardinals, Pileated Woodpeckers—but I’ll hold back! Feeding these birds and even making homemade suet has become not only enjoyable but also rewarding, knowing that it can be life-sustaining for them, especially in harsh weather.
Bird feeding can be a bit controversial, as some argue it might make birds reliant on a food source that could suddenly disappear. However, evidence suggests that even birds who frequent feeders still visit multiple sources daily, making them resilient rather than dependent. Winter, in particular, is a challenging season for birds, as they need extra calories to keep warm. Even the act of melting snow for water requires energy, putting a strain on their bodies.
Beyond the demands of winter, other human-caused factors also add stress to bird populations. Collisions with windows are a significant issue; reflections of skies and trees can be confusing, leading birds to fly directly into them. Each year, an estimated one million birds die from collisions with Toronto buildings alone.
Winter bird feeding not only brings joy to the feeder but also supports birds through challenging conditions. So, I invite you to join the ranks of the “Honorary Wildlife Rehabs” by feeding your local birds and supporting their survival. Here are six tips to get you started:
- Install a Bird Feeding Pole
Place a feeding pole in the ground early in the winter season. If you lack a yard, consider hanging feeders on a deck or the side of a house. - Manage Squirrels
If squirrels keep raiding your feeders, try mixing hot pepper into your seed or suet. Birds lack the taste receptors for spice, but squirrels will steer clear, leaving the good bird seed for its intended visitors. - Learn and Enjoy
Download the Merlin app to identify the birds visiting your feeders. Get to know the birds you’re attracting and find ways to invite more of your favorites. For example, Cardinals love sunflower and safflower seeds and feel safest with bushes nearby for cover. Keep feeders away from spots where predators, like cats, could ambush them. - Share Your Love of Birds
Talking about birds can spark interest among others, and you may find that friends and family join you in this hobby. Bird feeding has unexpectedly strengthened some of my own relationships, turning it into a shared passion. - Provide Drinking Water
A shallow, heated birdbath offers a valuable source of water in winter and attracts a variety of species to your yard. - Discourage Predators
If predators like hawks or owls start frequenting your feeders, take the feeders down for a few days. This will often make those predators lose interest and move on.
Above all, bird feeding should be enjoyable. Even putting out food now and then is enough—eventually, some grateful bird will find it.
Happy Birding!
