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What to Feed Birds All Year Round
Introduction
Birds need our help, especially in winter when food is scarce. But did you know that feeding birds year-round can make a big difference in their survival?
What to Feed Birds
Birds need a balanced diet of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. They find most of their food in nature, but supplementary food can help, especially when natural food sources are limited.
- Sunflower hearts: These are a great all-around option, packed with calories and easy to eat.
- Seed mix: This provides a variety of seeds and grains that birds enjoy.
- Fat-based products: Suet treats and fat balls provide energy and insulation.
- Mealworms: These are a good source of protein, especially for chicks.
- Berries: Birds love berries, which are full of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Nuts: Nuts are a good source of fat and protein, but some birds may have trouble eating them.
Where to Feed Birds
You can feed birds in a variety of places:
- Bird feeders: These are popular options, but make sure to clean them regularly to prevent disease.
- Bird tables: These provide a flat surface for birds to feed on, which is especially helpful for ground-feeding birds.
- Short grass or paving: These areas are easy for birds to access and clean up.
How to Feed Birds in Different Seasons
- Winter: Birds need extra calories in winter to stay warm. Offer a variety of high-calorie foods, such as sunflower seeds, suet treats, and nuts.
- Spring: Birds need to build up their strength for breeding. Offer calorie-rich foods, such as sunflower seeds and mealworms, and provide oyster shell grit for females to form eggs.
- Summer: Birds are busy raising chicks in summer. Offer live food, such as rehydrated mealworms, to supplement their natural diet. Avoid fat-based foods, which can go bad in the heat.
- Autumn: As berries and nuts ripen, birds will naturally eat more of these foods. Gradually increase the amount of food you offer as temperatures start to drop.
Tips for Feeding Birds
- Always buy quality bird food from a reputable supplier.
- Choose a variety of foods to attract a wider range of birds.
- Clean your feeders regularly to prevent disease.
- Move the location of feeders every month to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Provide water for birds to drink and bathe in.
- Grow bird-friendly plants in your garden to provide natural food sources.
