Even though winter is setting in, and your landscaping is void of the beautiful flowers of summer, you can still keep things lively and pretty by attracting birds to your yard. Although some species migrate to warmer temperatures and longer days, there are many birds that live in your area through the winter, and providing food for them will lure them to your yard and provide opportunities to observe their lovely plumage. Keep these tips in mind to draw birds to your yard.
- Provide water. Birds need food in the winter, but water is essential, as well. Consider using a plastic birdbath, as ceramic is prone to cracking. You can even use a birdbath heater to keep the water from freezing.
- Clean your feeders. When you refill birdseed in your feeders, be sure to empty the uneaten seeds out as they can grow mold and bacteria. You should also thoroughly scrub your feeders twice a year.
- Avoid squirrels. Although squirrels are cute, they will ravage your bird feeders. Always place your feeders at least 10 feet from roofs and tree branches so that squirrels can’t jump onto them, and use cone-shaped baffles on feeder poles. You can also opt to feed the birds with thistle and safflower seeds, which don’t attract squirrels as easily as other seeds.
- Use suet cages. Suet is a product that attracts birds like nuthatches, wrens, and woodpeckers. You can also use a big pinecone stuffed with a mixture of five parts cornmeal and one-part peanut butter.
- Offer a variety of seeds. If you want to attract a wide variety of birds to your yard, consider offering different types of seeds, as different bird species have their own favorite varieties.
If you are looking for unique ways to attract birds to your yard this winter, or you need help with your winter landscaping chores, call on the professionals at Bumgardner’s Landscape at (541) 826-7713.