Have you ever seen an injured animal and wondered if there was anything you could do to help? You may know of organizations that take in and rehabilitate wild animals—these are run by dedicated Wildlife Custodians, also known as Rehabilitators (or “Rehabbers”).

In Ontario, over 70 authorized organizations are managed by licensed wildlife custodians, who are legally able to provide wildlife rehabilitation under the supervision of the Ministry of Natural Resources. You can find a list of these organizations here.

These groups offer temporary shelter to animals that are injured, orphaned, or sick, caring for them until they’re ready to return to their natural habitats. Rehabbers can also offer advice if you encounter an animal in need, helping you understand the best course of action.

Often, the best way to help a wild animal is by leaving it alone. For instance, many young animals are brought to wildlife centers by well-meaning people who mistakenly believe them to be orphaned. If you see a wild animal that appears to need help, call a rehabber first; they’ll advise whether the animal should be taken in or left for the best chance at survival.

Wildlife custodians provide invaluable support to both people and animals. By protecting nature and supporting vulnerable populations, they help to sustain the health of our ecosystems.

Wildlife rehabilitation, however, requires significant time and resources. Most rehabbers receive minimal government funding and rely on donations to operate. To support these efforts, Wild for Rehab works to raise awareness for organizations that aid wildlife and protect the environment. We’re excited to host a Gala fundraiser in September 2024, benefitting two Ontario wildlife rehabilitation organizations. Please see our Events page for more information.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Provide Drinking Water
   A shallow, heated birdbath offers a valuable source of water in winter and attracts a variety of species to your yard.
6. 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!