Fall Bird Feeding - Attract Migrating Birds for Spectacular Show

When the weather cools down and seasons begin to change, don't forsake the birdfeeders in your yard. All birds migrate when the season changes, some for short distances and some for thousands of miles and their hormones kick into high gear to increase their metabolism. Regardless of the migration distance the birds are flying, they all need plenty to eat so they can bulk up and sustain themselves on their flying journey and activity around well stocked birdfeeders will pick up dramatically during fall. Use these tips to keep the birds fed during fall and enjoy a spectacular show in your own backyard.

Stock up on Bird Food

Stock up on bird seed and suet before the supplies dwindle at your local retailers. Pet stores often run sales on bird food during the late summer and early fall months, take advantage of these sales and save money. Making homemade suet* and bird feeder pinecones* is a cheap alternative and a fun craft project to do with children.

Store extra birdseed in tin or metal containers to protect it from rodents that will be seeking indoor shelter as the days grow colder.

*Make homemade bird suet by saving leftover bacon grease and mixing it with a little cornmeal and birdseeds. Spread mixture into shallow pan, refrigerate until hard, slice into cakes and place in suet feeder on tree branches.

*To make bird feeder pinecones, tie a hanging string around pinecones, spread cheap peanut butter on pinecones, then roll pinecones in loose birdseeds. Hang pinecones outside on tree or shrub branches that can be seen from indoors.

Grow Your Own Bird Food

Research native flowers and shrubs in your area that provide food and shelter for birds and if outdoor space permits, plant some in your landscape. Native plants are easy-care additions to landscapes which provide seeds, berries and insects for the birds to eat, plus leaves and twigs for shelter and nest building. Talk with a local gardening expert (found at your county extension office or at a local nursery) to find out about native plants which can provide landscape beauty and bird food year around.

Keep Water Clean and Fresh

Birds still need plenty of clean, fresh water during the fall and winter months. Keep fallen leaves and other debris cleared out of birdbaths and replenish the water supply regularly.

Keeping birdbath water from freezing during the winter in some locals is tricky, but can be done. Check out options for heated birdbaths and other watering tricks at your local nursery supply center or pet store.