Planting native plants is the ideal way to support birds at all times of the year. Allowing plants that likely once grew where our homes are now, balances the greater ecosystem, helps restore habitat that has been lost due to human development, and gives birds the opportunity to feed on native vegetation ripe with berries, fruits, and seeds.
However, we recognize that it is not always accessible or easeful.
If a complete outdoor renovation is not realistic at this time, a simple way to encourage nature’s abundance is to reduce the amount a yard is manicured- leaving small sections for plants and grasses to organically grow.
Another simple and beautiful opportunity to cultivate a relationship with local birds is to begin the practice of bird feeding. Bird feeding is especially beneficial during winter, when birds face a dualistic challenge- the need for more food in a time when it is less available. In the year’s coldest season, the insects have gone dormant and birds require more calories to regulate their temperature and energy in winter’s harsh conditions.
Although getting started in bird feeding is a relatively easy and low cost practice, there are ethics to consider. We call this: Responsible Bird Feeding.
So what is responsible bird feeding?
Responsible bird feeding is taking into account and informing ourselves on the rhythms and needs of nature. It is asking questions such as- what season is it? What do birds need to thrive right now? Which seeds do varying species require? Will this bird feeder influence animals and the greater ecosystem beyond the birds we want to feed?
Luckily, with the rise in birding, there are plenty of resources to determine how to most responsibly feed backyard birds. One of which is coming right up!
Tips for Winter Bird Feeding
- Not all seed blends are created equal. So, what do we look for? Red milo is often found in blends, but is actually a filler. The best seeds for birds, rather, are types such as millet, black oil sunflower, and safflower. When deciding which blend to buy, look at the percentages. You want high percentages of millet, black oil sunflower, and safflower, with small percentages of milo or cracked corn. If the ratio is reversed, it means that the product is mostly made with filler and has less nutritional value for birds.
- There are ways to ethically feed birds in order to maintain the health of the larger ecosystem of which they are a part. If you have bears in your area, it is best to only plant native plants, and not use a birdfeeder. Bears are highly intelligent and if they find birdseed, they will return again and again. This, unfortunately, puts the bear’s life at risk since when seen around humans three times, they are considered a danger.
- If you do choose to use a feeder, make sure you hang them out of reach of mule deer, since they are not able to digest birdseed.
- Since feeders can increase the risk of disease, Cornell Lab of Ornithology recommends washing your feeder once every two weeks, as well as cleaning the uneaten seeds beneath.
- Placing multiple feeders at an array of heights and locations can encourage varying species, while decreasing the propensity for competition.
- If your yard is often visited by neighborhood cats, it is recommended that you forgo using a bird feeder. Outdoor cats are one of the leading causes of bird deaths and the presence of the feeder can make them even more vulnerable and predictable prey for felines. Bonus points if you bring your cat indoors or install a catio for them!
- Lastly, bird window collisions cause up to a billion bird deaths each year. If you choose to use a feeder, place it within three feet of a window, for research shows that feeders within 10-15 feet are the most dangerous. Presumably because birds fly away, not able to see the glass, and mistake it for open space. Adding window treatments can help further prevent birds from these collisions.
There are, obviously, several factors to consider when feeding birds, including their safety and that of the greater ecosystem. We highly recommend that the act of bird feeding be a mindful, conscious, and attentive practice that considers, first and foremost, the health of birds and nature. The pleasure of witnessing their vibrant beauty is the cherry on top!
We also recommend that you speak to local experts that can help inform you of the best way to bird feed according to your specific region and yard! Our friends at Front Range Birding & Optics have all the resources you might need- including, but not limited to, feeders, specifically tailored bird seed based on the season and the bird, as well as an array of wonderful insights!
You can visit their website here at https://frontrangebirding.com/