If you have already experienced a winter in Bethel, OH, then you know that they can get extremely cold. This is tough on the wild birds that stay in the area throughout the season, but fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help them survive. Learn the simple steps you can take to save the local wildlife, then head to Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center to get your wild bird feed and other supplies.

How to Help Creatures Survive the Winter

1. Supply Wild Bird Feed

Frigid temperatures mean that the birds need to eat more during the winter than any other season, which is difficult to do because this is the time of year when food is scarce. To prepare for this, birds will begin looking for a reliable feeder at the end of the summer and the early fall. If you hang out a feeder during this time, they will remember your home and come back to it throughout the winter for a food source. Keep in mind that if you start feeding them, they will be counting on you to supply them throughout the winter. Wild bird feed and suet cakes are nutritious and filling options.

2. Keep Them Warm

Birds have a few natural ways of staying warm in the winter with most of them growing additional feathers and keeping them fluffed. They also roost during the night to conserve energy during the coldest time of day. Prepare your birdhouses and roosting areas around your home by clearing out the debris after the breeding season is over to invite new birds in.

3. Supply Water

When temperatures drop below freezing, water can be more difficult to find than food. Water keeps birds hydrated and helps them preen their feathers to lock in their warmth. A heated birdbath will maintain liquid water that birds can use on cold days. You can also use a normal birdbath and add a heating element, which will kick on and off to conserve energy while doing its job.

With this small commitment, you can “adopt” some wild birds for the winter, and enjoy watching them come to your home every day. Get started as soon as possible so birds will find your home now and know they can rely on you. Visit Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center to get your shopping done or contact them at (513) 734-2246 to ask what they recommend. They are your local one-stop shop for wild bird feed, livestock supplies, and pet accessories.