Landscaping for Winter Birds

There are three basic necessities birds have during winter months: water, food, shelter. Here are some things we have done to encourage birds to visit or winter on our property as we enjoy their presence in the dreary weather days. Different birds have different requirements during the year and we have tried to cover as many as possible.

Water:

We have two goldfish ponds on our property, although the openness prohibits the birds from drinking from them usually. We have two birdbaths located in isolated areas next to native cedar trees. The cedars afford a safe refuge while waiting for their turn at the birdbath. Refuge is important as we also have hawks and falcons. We have pans located on the ground in three places (located in sheltered flower and fern beds) for the ground feeders to drink from, such as the turtle doves and the robins.

We keep a small watering birdbath on our front deck. When the winter weather freezes all other sources of water, we can keep warm water available.

Food:

The only bird feeders we use during the summer months are the hummingbird feeders. Natural food sources include flower seeds and pods, a mulberry tree, blackberries, polk berries, wild strawberries, oak trees, hickory trees, and wild grapes, all of which will last into the winter months. During the winter months we have four feeders we will maintain for the birds that winter here. The birds we have enjoy the black oiled sunflower seed and songbird mixture. Remember to scatter some seed on the ground for the ground feeders.

We have some areas on our property that we do not clean or mow. The pasture offers a multitude of food to the winter birds from insects to seeds and the natural wooded areas offer food as well as shelter and protection.

Shelter:

We have allowed many of the native cedar trees to remain and grow, thus allowing adequate shelter from harsh winter winds and weather. The native trees of oak, hickory, dogwood, redbud, and hack berry provide nesting and refuge for the winter birds as well as the shrubs, brier thickets, and natural wooded areas. The absolute best shelter for winter birds is a good brush pile. Birds love a brush pile!

Conclusion:

The best advice for anyone wanting a guide to landscaping for winter birds is, do not be too neat. Birds need native habitat and food for survival through winter months. Supplemental food is recommended but native shelter and food is the absolute best for them. Research the birds in your area; plan for their food and habitat requirements and enjoy the antics and songs all year long.