Cold Weather Alert: How to Help Birds Find Food and Seeds This Winter

A blue jay fills up its stomach at a bird feeder. Courtesy photo

SHEPHERDSTOWN — This winter has been tough. The cold and snow make life harder for everyone, especially our backyard birds. These cheerful creatures, with their bright feathers, often bring joy during the gloomy weather.

To help them, many people set up bird feeders. These feeders are vital when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce. Birds of different sizes and personalities search for seeds, suet, peanut butter, and dried fruits. When they’re not eating, they find shelter in evergreens or other trees.

It’s fascinating to think about how these birds communicate. When one bird discovers a good food source, others quickly join in. It’s like they have a secret message system about where to find a feast!

Bird feeders placed near trees with year-round leaves are the most popular spots. Here, they can feed safely, knowing there’s a place to hide if needed. Red-bellied woodpeckers, flickers, purple finches, and cardinals often flock to these areas.

Smaller birds like juncos, chickadees, and goldfinches can easily eat from hanging feeders or ground trays. In contrast, larger birds such as mourning doves and blue jays prefer to forage on the ground.

It’s amazing to see the variety of seeds birds enjoy during winter. They love pumpkin seeds, hulled sunflower seeds, and black oil sunflower seeds. Cracked corn, thistle seeds, oats, and sorghum are also popular.

Birds like nuthatches and house finches are less picky, while downy woodpeckers prefer suet. Blue jays love peanuts, whether they’re in pieces or whole. They can be quite mischievous, sometimes hiding the nuts for later!

Bird feeders come in various designs. There are tube feeders, trays with roofs, and suet holders that let birds easily access food. These feeders are essential for birds, especially during harsh winters.

While a warm-up may be on the way, we’ve had a few rough days. If Punxsutawney Phil is correct about six more weeks of winter, our feathered friends will need all the help they can get.