A satisfying way to connect with nature and support local wildlife is to feed birds in your backyard. However, birds will return to your feeders if you provide them with the appropriate foods at the appropriate times. A guide to what and when to feed backyard birds is provided here.
Best Foods for Backyard Birds:
Best Bird Food for Your Backyard Many birds, including cardinals, chickadees, and finches, love black oil sunflower seeds. They provide vital energy because they are high in fat and protein. Nyjer (Thistle) Seeds are great for sparrows and small goldfinches. To avoid waste, use a feeder made just for it. Suet is a high-energy food made from animal fat that is great for wrens, woodpeckers, and nuthatches, especially in the winter. Peanuts: Whole or shelled peanuts are popular with titmice, jays, and woodpeckers. Steer clear of flavors and salted varieties. Mealworms are a favorite of bluebirds, robins, and wrens because they provide protein, which is especially important during the nesting season. Fruits: Sliced apples, oranges, and berries are popular with mockingbirds, orioles, and tanagers. Corn: Ground feeders like sparrows and doves like cracked corn, which should be eaten in moderation.
When to Give Birds Food:
Winter (December–February): To survive the cold, birds require foods high in fat like suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Feeders should never be frozen. Spring (March–May): Provide protein-rich foods like mealworms and sunflower seeds to birds as they build nests and raise young. Avoid bread because it lacks nutrients. Summer (June–August): Natural food is plentiful, but feeders must be kept clean and water must be provided. Hummingbirds and orioles are attracted to nectar and fruits. High-energy seeds and suet are beneficial to migrating birds in the fall, from September to November. To prevent disease, regularly clean feeders.
Tips for Feeding:
For protection from predators, place feeders away from shrubs or trees. Feeders should be kept clean to prevent bacteria and mold. In a shallow birdbath, provide year-round access to clean water. You can help beautiful birds thrive while also enjoying a lively backyard full of them by providing the right foods at the right times. Have fun birding!
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