Tips for Feeding Birds During the Wintertime

Choose a sunny area, preferably east or south side of the house for the outside bird feeder.

Squirrels are excellent jumpers and can jump up to 10 feet, so place the feeder at least 10 feet from an any structure or bush that a squirrel can jump from.

Check the condition of the feeder, especially after a snowfall. Keep the feeder and bird food dry and remove snow, rain and/or wet seed.

During windy weather, check to see how the wind affects the bird feeder. If there is too much wind around the feeder causing the bird seed to scatter out of the feeder, move the feeder to a less windy area or block the wind around the feeder.

At times, it can be difficult for birds to find water. Provide water for birds, either with a heated bird bath or a heated pet dish.

To attract a variety of birds, feed black oil sunflower seeds. Many types of birds like this type of seed. It has a thin shell that is easier to crack than some other bird seeds. Striped sunflower seeds are also a good choice to attract different types of birds.

To attract hummingbirds to a yard, feed them sugar water. This can be made by mixing four parts of water to one part sugar. Boil the mixture and let it cool before putting it out for the hummingbirds.

Birds need fatty foods to keep their body temperature warm for winter. Feed them scraps of meat or peanut butter. (It is a myth that peanut butter is not good for birds).

Feed birds peanuts or other nuts that are unsalted and unseasoned. Nuts are an excellent source of high protein and energy for birds.

Woodpeckers and orioles will enjoy a bit of grape jelly!

For a great supply of calcium, feed birds eggshells. To get rid of any possible germs, since the egg shell and bake in the oven at a low temperature of 250 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Let cool before placing outside for the birds.

Fruit, dried or fresh, are also good food choices for feathered friends.

Birds also enjoy bread products, anything from rolls, bread, bagels, muffins, etc. Birds have small beaks, so be sure to break into small pieces.