How To Attract Birds In Winter

Attract Birds In Winter And Bring Your Garden To Life

Ugh. It is winter. Gray, dull and down-right depressing at times. The lifeless landscape causes us to yearn for springtime, which can seem like forever in the future. One way to break the monotony is to attract birds to the winter landscape. Watching birds flirt around can brighten anyone’s day and they are easier to attract than one may think. Follow these simple guidelines to attract birds in winter.

Provide Shelter

Putting up a few (or many) birdhouses will give birds a place to rest and hide from rough weather. As winter becomes spring, birds will also need a place to lay eggs and raise their young. It is a lot of fun, and a great lesson for children, to watch as a young bird family grows.

Another way to provide shelter and protection is to create leaf and twig piles near the bird feeders. These will provide emergency protection should a predator come near.

Provide Food

This may seem like the most obvious of things to do to attract birds, but there are a few rules to follow.

Buy high quality and varied seeds. Just like us humans, birds like to eat well. They prefer good quality seeds. Each species of birds has preference as to what kinds of seeds they seek out. Providing a variety of seeds will help attract a variety of birds. Also, put out suet cakes to attract additional species such as woodpeckers, cardinals and nuthatches.

Keep your feeders fully stocked. If the feeder is empty too long, birds will move on to find other sources of food. It is also important to clean the bird feeder periodically.

Prevent Squirrel Marauders

Using a squirrel proof feeder will help assure that birds get the food and not squirrels. We have nothing against squirrels. They are cute and fun to watch also, but they tend to pig out on bird seed. Using a bird feeder on a free-standing bird feeder pole is one strategy that works. Also, be sure to locate the feeder at least 10 feet from any tree trunks and branches. Squirrels have great leaping ability.

Fill The Bird Bath

Birds, like all animals, require water year-round, even during the frigid winter months. While finding natural water sources can be a challenge in freezing temperatures, providing a consistent and accessible water source in your garden is an excellent way to support wildlife and attract birds in winter. A simple bird bath can do the trick, but to keep it functional during icy conditions, consider investing in a bird bath heater. These devices are affordable, easy to operate, and ensure that the water remains thawed and available. By maintaining a reliable water source, you’ll encourage birds to return to your garden regularly, creating an inviting habitat that supports their survival during harsh weather.

Creating a winter haven for birds in your yard is a rewarding way to connect with nature and support local wildlife during the colder months. By incorporating thoughtful elements like feeders, shelter, and water sources, you’ll not only attract birds in winter but also enjoy their vibrant presence and cheerful songs throughout the season. Ready to make your landscape a bird-friendly retreat? Contact Allentuck Landscaping Co. today, and let us help you create a space that’s beautiful and beneficial for wildlife all year long!