Caring For Our Native Songbirds During Winter
Written By: Scott W. Holland
To me, winter is a paradox. A time for reflection and quiet contemplation, juxtaposed with the internal strength and fortitude needed to carry on. For spring is near, and with it, the potential of a wonderful new year. And for our feathered friends who stick with us throughout the winter, this sentiment couldn’t be more true. For it is during winter months, when food and water are scarce, and an increased internal energy output is required to keep from freezing, that our songbirds need us most. Through a few simple acts of kindness, we can help our songbirds not just survive but thrive during winter.
One way is by regularly providing food. During winter, a bird’s diet changes as food sources such as insects and fruits that were plentiful in the spring and summer are all but absent between December and April. It is during this time that songbirds need to build up a fat layer to create a stored energy reserve that can be called upon when needed. By providing high caloric foods such as black oil sunflower seeds, peanuts and suet, birds will be able to not just sustain themselves but maintain that fat reserve needed for those exceptionally cold days and nights that we’re sure to get.
Also, providing water for our songbirds during winter is always welcome. If no open water sources are available, birds can eat snow to help stay hydrated, however the energy expended during this process is considerable. If water is provided, you’ll need to be mindful as it can freeze overnight and will need to be replaced. Now, if you’re feeling particularly bougie, you can invest in a heated bird bath. Yes, they actually have those. It won’t quite be the thermal hot springs Icelanders enjoy, but it will prevent the water from freezing and provide much needed hydration.
Having native plants around your home and yard is also recommended for helping songbirds survive and thrive. Plants such as winterberry holly maintain fruit throughout most of the winter, which provides birds with a natural food source. Similarly, pinecones have nutrients for hungry birds. In addition to food sources, native plants and trees, especially evergreens, can act as windbreaks, shelters and even protection from predators.
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention installing a birdhouse or three. A birdhouse can provide much needed shelter for your cavity nesting winter birds, such as Chickadees, Downy Woodpeckers, Wrens and Nuthatches. All these birds are attracted to houses with a 3.175 cm. (1¼”) entry hole and an internal nesting box size between 11½ to 16½ cm. square and 13 to 23 cm. tall.
It is often the simple things in life that bring us the most pleasure. By providing a little love and support, we can help tip the scales in favor of our native songbird survival during winter. And for us, spending a few minutes watching the birds gather round can put a smile on your face and warm your heart, knowing that your efforts are appreciated and truly help those who seek it.