Growing Green

By Robin Trott, Extension Educator

As Minnesotans, we know how tough winter can be – and backyard birds face the same challenges. When the snow piles up and temperatures plummet, natural food sources become scarce. This is when bird feeders become a lifeline, providing essential nutrition to help birds survive until spring.

Why Bird Feeding Matters in January

Minnesota winters are especially tough for birds. Insects, berries, and seeds—key food sources in warmer months—are gone. By putting out food, we give birds the calories and energy they need to stay warm and healthy. Many species, like chickadees, woodpeckers, and nuthatches, stay in the state through winter, and your backyard feeders provide a reliable source of food.

Best Foods for Winter Bird Feeding

To keep birds healthy, offer foods high in fat and calories. Here are some great options for winter bird feeding:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: These are a favorite among nearly every bird species. They’re rich in fat, easy to crack, and a top food choice in winter.

• Suet: Packed with energy, suet is perfect for woodpeckers and nuthatches. Some suet cakes come with added ingredients like berries or seeds to attract different species.

• Nyjer (Thistle) Seed: Ideal for finches, nyjer is high in fat and a perfect choice for smaller winter visitors.

• Peanuts: Jays and woodpeckers love peanuts. They’re high in fat, making them great for winter.

• Mealworms: Mealworms are great for insect-eating birds, and they can be offered dried or live.

Feeders to Attract Winter Birds

Birds need more than just good food; they also need feeders placed in sheltered spots that protect their food from the elements and are accessible to a variety of species. Choosing the right type of feeder and positioning it properly ensures that birds can feed safely and comfortably, helping to support their health and survival during harsh winter months. Here’s what works well in winter:

• Tube Feeders: Great for smaller birds like chickadees and finches. They also keep seed dry.

• Platform Feeders: These are perfect for larger birds like doves and jays. Just be sure to keep them clean to avoid attracting unwanted guests like squirrels.

• Suet Feeders: Ideal for woodpeckers and other insect-eating birds, suet feeders offer the high-fat nutrition they need in winter.

Tips for a Successful Feeding Station

Helping birds is great, but there are some things to keep in mind:

• Keep Feeders Clean: Clean feeders regularly to prevent mold and bacteria, which can harm birds. Use soap and water, then rinse thoroughly.

• Squirrel-Proofing: If squirrels are stealing food, consider squirrel-proof feeders, or place them in hard-to-reach spots.

• Spacing Feeders: If you have several feeders, space them out to reduce competition and stress among birds.

Winter Birdwatching

Winter birdwatching is a fun way to connect with nature. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner, the cold months offer the chance to spot resilient birds that stick around. By keeping feeders stocked and offering the right food, you’ll be helping birds survive while enjoying the beauty of nature from your window.

As temperatures drop, your backyard feeders can make all the difference. Keep your birds well-fed, and you’ll enjoy a variety of species visiting your yard all winter long.

Happy birdwatching!

For more news from U of M Extension, visit www.extension.umn.edu/news or contact Extension Communications at extdigest@umn.edu.